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Australia is taking a tough stand against anti-Semitism
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Warnings now include universities and cultural institutions that could lose funding if they fail to act
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The kind of hatred and violence that we've seen on our streets recently is despicable and it won't be tolerated
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And I want those responsible to face the full force of the law
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On Thursday, Gillian Siegel, the nation's anti-Semitism envoy, unveiled a plan with clear steps for universities and other organizations to fight anti-Semitic attacks across the country
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Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says that the government will review the plan's recommendations
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He acknowledged a rise in anti-Semitic incidents, including arson attacks on synagogues and vandalism of homes, with hundreds of people charged
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He also noted the Middle East conflict contributed to this rise, but made it clear that anti-Semitism didn't begin on October 7th
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Siegel said the plan is more than symbolic It a call to action targeting anti in laws universities workplaces and public institutions This plan is a whole of society plan It not just government
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It will need the support of government. We need leadership from government
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But we need society, businesses, unions, sporting codes, community associations will be invited and encouraged to take part in this national effort
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The plan has drawn criticism from the Jewish Council of Australia. They say it threatens democratic freedoms, deepens divisions and focuses on one form of racism while advancing a political agenda
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The report shows that between October 2023 and September 2024, anti-Semitic incidents rose 316 percent, with over 2,000 cases reported
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This data shaped the plan's education initiatives in schools, universities, social media and sports
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In 2024, more than 60 percent of Jewish students who experience anti-Semitism said they felt unsupported by their schools
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For the full story, find it right now on the Straight Arrow News mobile app or online at san.com
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For Straight Arrow News, I'm Kaylee Carey
