‘I Feared for My Life’: Jewish Teacher’s Chilling Testimony of Antisemitism at Sydney Mardi Gras
- Jewish teacher Benjamin F recounts being called a ‘genocide supporter’ during Sydney’s Mardi Gras parade
- He feared for his life as protesters chanted ‘Free Palestine’ and displayed aggressive behavior
- Benjamin F is one of dozens of people giving evidence about their experiences of antisemitism to the royal commission
- The inquiry was sparked by the devastating Bondi terror attack, which left 15 people dead at a Hanukkah event
Benjamin F, a Jewish teacher from Sydney, has given a harrowing account of his experience marching with the LGBTQIA+ group Dayenu in the city’s 2026 Mardi Gras parade.
The group was met with a barrage of antisemitic abuse, with protesters calling them ‘genocide supporters’ and chanting ‘Free Palestine’.
Benjamin F told the royal commission into antisemitism that he genuinely feared for his life during the ordeal, describing it as ‘one of the scariest moments of my life’.
Despite the traumatic experience, Benjamin F’s story is just one of many being shared with the royal commission.
The inquiry, sparked by the devastating Bondi terror attack that left 15 people dead at a Hanukkah event, is hearing from dozens of people who have faced antisemitism in their daily lives.
Maya Hockey, a Sydney university student, recounted being bullied at school, with classmates telling her she should be gassed because she was Jewish.
The commission also heard from a bereaved family member who lost her nephew in the Bondi attack, and a former crisis support call centre volunteer who stopped working due to an increasing number of antisemitic comments from callers.
Benjamin F’s experience at the Mardi Gras parade is a stark reminder of the growing threat of antisemitism in Australia. The group Dayenu, which aims to promote Jewish inclusivity and acceptance, was subjected to aggressive behavior despite displaying no Israeli flags or symbols.
The incident highlights the need for increased awareness and education about antisemitism, particularly in progressive circles where it is often hidden behind a veil of tolerance and acceptance.
The royal commission’s inquiry is a crucial step towards addressing the scourge of antisemitism in Australia.
As one high-profile witness described, antisemitism is a ‘virus’ that has evolved over time, with aggressors on both the far right and far left sides of politics.
The commission’s findings will be essential in shaping a national response to this growing threat, and ensuring that Australia remains a safe and inclusive society for all.
Analysis: What This Means for Australia
The rise of antisemitism in Australia has significant implications for national security and social cohesion.
The Bondi terror attack, which was carried out by an individual motivated by antisemitic ideology, highlights the potential for violent extremism to manifest in our communities.
The royal commission’s inquiry is a critical step towards understanding the drivers of antisemitism and developing strategies to prevent it.
Law enforcement agencies and community leaders must work together to address the growing threat of antisemitism. This includes increasing awareness and education about antisemitism, particularly in schools and universities, and providing support to individuals and communities affected by it.
The commission’s findings will be essential in informing a national response to antisemitism, and ensuring that Australia remains a safe and inclusive society for all.
Security analysts say that the rise of antisemitism in Australia is a symptom of a broader societal problem. The increasing polarization of politics and the spread of hate speech online have created an environment in which extremist ideologies can thrive.
Addressing antisemitism requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, community engagement, and law enforcement. By working together, we can prevent the spread of hate and ensure that Australia remains a beacon of tolerance and inclusivity.
antisemitism national security social cohesion Australian Human Rights Commission Australian Jewish community
