Discussion about this post

User's avatar
Shane Shmuel's avatar

Imagine the cartoon was aimed at Muslims - Charlie Hebdo attacks mark 2!

I am so exhausted from all this CRAP.

I sent this letter into The Age and SMH:

The Sydney Morning Herald cartoon of 7 January, which implies disproportionate Jewish influence over prominent “upstanders” calling for a Royal Commission, risks reinforcing longstanding antisemitic tropes. Such portrayals embolden those who, since the October 7 attacks on Israel, have openly protested, defaced property, and attacked Jews in all forms. If Jews truly wielded the kind of power suggested, the surge in antisemitism would have been swiftly dealt with. Instead, we have seen public celebrations of violence against Jews and Israelis by the likes of Imam Wissam Haddad, including the October 9, 2023 protest on the steps of the Sydney Opera House for the world to see accompanied by hateful chants pass with inadequate condemnation and consequence. Cartoons that perpetuate myths of Jewish power do not challenge prejudice - they legitimize it.

Anyone in their right mind should support a Royal Commission to ensure a repeat of the last 25 months is not repeated, not just against Jews, but any other minority group in Australia.

Allan Kalus's avatar

Thanks, James for calling this out. I look forward to hearing Cathy Wilcox’s thinking process behind her creation of this cartoon and also the explanation by her editor as to why it was accepted for publication- hopefully at a Royal Commission. This event clearly illustrates that virulent antisemitism is alive and well in certain sections of our community. At least we now know where the Nine Network stands.

39 more comments...

No posts

Ready for more?