Growing antisemitism in the Inner West must be eliminated

Monday 13 January 2025

Media release
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne

Following the attack on the Newtown Synagogue Mayor Darcy Byrne has today called on the whole Inner West community to come together to stop the spread of antisemitism in our local community.

The vandalism and attempted firebombing of the Synagogue was the latest escalation of antisemitism in the Inner West which has been building for many months.

Byrne said that throughout the past year there has been increasing incidents of local Jewish citizens being harassed, antisemitic graffiti, and vandalism and threats of violence.

"We never thought we'd see the day in the Inner West when places of worship become targets for firebombing," Byrne said.

"Unfortunately, this is far from a one-off incident. In fact, antisemitism has been building in our local community for many months now.

"Every week, people are reporting new cases of vilification and intimidation targeted at the Jewish community.

"Antisemitic slogans and Nazi memes are continually being plastered on local walls, windows, and bus stops.

"Hamas assassination targets are being repeatedly painted on the offices of local politicians and local Jewish people are feeling real fear.

"Enough is enough. This has to stop.

"As a community we must stand strongly in solidarity with the Jewish community and stamp out this growing antisemitism."

Byrne called on all elected representatives in the Inner West to combat antisemitism, not inflame it.

"For months now local Jewish leaders have been pleading with local representatives in the Inner West to turn the temperature down and to help reduce tensions.

"Unfortunately, not all local politicians have heeded these calls.

"Our community must unite to eliminate antisemitism, but that won’t happen if our elected representatives are continually sowing the seeds of division."

Ends

For media enquiries please contact Jonny Browne, Jonny.Browne@innerwest.nsw.gov.au