Readers respond to Crossroads21 findings on attitudes to swastika and knowledge of the Holocaust

The Jewish Holocaust Centre welcomes the significant Crossroads21 survey about Australian attitudes to Jewish people and Israel. The findings confirm that anti-Semitism exists in Australia, and must be addressed, even though strong anti-Semitic views remain relatively low. We work hard every day to educate young Australians to be tolerant of all religions and cultures.

It is interesting to note that the majority of Australians agree that the Nazi swastika is a symbol of hatred and consequently should be banned. As our museum founder, Holocaust survivor Bono Weiner once said, ‘when I see a swastika, I see Auschwitz’.

Our work at the Holocaust museum continues to be vital as the Crossroads21 survey reveals that 30% of Australians know little or nothing about the Holocaust and a further 45% know only something. As we expand our centre our aim is to reach every Victorian student with our programs and address this knowledge gap, because ignorance is at the root of hatred.

Jayne Josem, Museum Director & CEO, Melbourne

Yes, I do find Hitler's red flag with a swastika repulsive. Yes, the sight of people using the Nazi flag is repulsive and the thought of people believing this garbage makes m quack in my bed. Ban the Nazi flag but not the swastika per se. The swastika was misappropriated by the Nazis.

It is still a sacred symbol to Hindus, Buddhists and Jainists around the world.  On this issue I would refer you to the declaration of the Second Hindu Jewish Leadership Summit.  Paragraphs seven and eight clearly state that these religions should not be punished, by making their symbols illegal, because they were misused by the warped, ignorant ides of the Nazis.

David Kruszewski

Re the The Jewish Independent article about Nazi symbols, I have been told that the swastikas and variations in Sydney’s Customs House are not an issue 

Eli Rabinowitz, Perth

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Australia loves its Jews, but nearly one in five question their loyalty, new survey shows (Haaretz)

First extensive report in recent decades on attitudes toward Jews Down Under finds that nearly two-thirds of Australians support banning the swastika

Photo: Swastika symbols painted onto a mural at Bondi Beach, February 2019