Academic abused for support of Jewish Australians, royal commission told

Academic Marcia Langton has recounted the abuse she faced for supporting Jewish Australians before the antisemitism royal commission. Her vehicle's windows were shattered after voicing her support for Jewish Australians. The commission also heard from a Jewish childcare worker about her efforts to introduce Jewish culture to a predominantly non-Jewish center.

The royal commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion had Ms. Langton appear to discuss the role of education in combating various forms of racism and hate, including antisemitism. She alleged that she has been labeled a "zio" and subjected to racism and abuse due to her support for Jewish Australians. The pro-Palestine movement in Melbourne has targeted her, causing her to be silenced in the debate.

Langton emphasized that the mistreatment of Jewish Australians cannot be justified by the actions in Gaza. The commission also received testimony from a Jewish Australian woman working in a childcare center with about 70% non-Jewish families. The center aims to foster social cohesion by introducing children to Jewish culture, highlighting shared values while respecting traditions.