Sheina Gutnick, daughter of Reuven Morrison, shared her experiences with Australia's royal commission into antisemitism. She stated that antisemitism has been allowed to openly appear. This public hearing follows a deadly shooting at a Hanukkah event.
Gutnick detailed receiving hateful messages after the attack. Some messages stated she should have also been killed. She told the hearing about people excusing the violence as purely anti-Zionist. Her father was killed trying to stop the gunmen. Gutnick felt a huge shift in antisemitism since October 2023. She said it became socially acceptable to make antisemitic comments.
This testimony fits into a broader concern about rising hate speech globally. The royal commission was established after a shooting where 15 people died. Gunman Sajid Akram was killed by police. His son, Naveed Akram, faces 59 charges. These include 15 counts of murder. Gutnick's father, Reuven Morrison, was deeply proud of Australia. He had fled the Soviet Union at age 14. Bondi now holds complicated feelings for Gutnick. She has beautiful childhood memories there also.
Another witness, known as AAL, also testified. He moved to Australia from South Africa in the 1980s. AAL considered Australia his home from his first day. He admitted things have changed for him. He now seriously considers if Australia is right for his grandchildren. AAL appeared emotional while giving his testimony. The royal commission has received nearly 7,500 submissions. These are from the public about their experiences.
Former High Court judge Virginia Bell leads the commission. She published an interim report with 14 recommendations. These include prioritizing gun reforms. Extend policing arrangements for Jewish high holy days are also recommended. Bell noted a sharp spike in antisemitism. She stated this mirrors trends in other western countries. Bell linked this spike to events in the Middle East. Hostility towards Jewish Australians can be prompted quickly by these events. The commission will release its final report soon.