Australia: Melbourne Jew attacked verbally and physically

By JPOST.COM STAFF
The B'nai B'rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) condmened an antisemitic attack on a Melbourne man, Monday. A visibly Jewish man on the way from his home to the local tram stop was verbally assaulted by three individuals who referred to him as a "[expletive] Jew", among other antisemitic slander. The victim, fearing for his safety, attempted to flee the scene but was chased down and physically assaulted. He was lightly injured. ADC Chairman Michael Lipshutz said "The B'nai B'rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) is gravely concerned at the increased level of antisemitism and violence perpetrated against members of the Jewish community. Violent attacks by opportunistic individuals are becoming all too common in this generally peaceful community. We do not want to get to a situation as in some parts of the world where Jews fear wearing traditional Jewish items such as a skullcap as it may lead to them becoming targets. "While the ADC has confidence that the Police will thoroughly investigate the incident ... [it] calls for strong and resolute action from all facets of our society ... so as to preserve and maintain harmony in what is now a multi-cultural society."