Merri-bek councillor hits back at Jewish mum who voiced concerns about neighbourhood safety

A young Jewish mum’s impassioned plea to a local councillor amid growing anti-Semitism in Brunswick was met with accusations of “blatant lies” and ignorance. Read both letters in full.

A young Jewish mum who raised concerns with her local councillor about safety amid growing anti-Semitism in her community was met with accusations of lying and lacking understanding.

Merri-bek councillor James Conlan told the ratepayer he was “losing patience” with people who did not understand pro-Palestinian protests.

Cr Conlan dismissed the fears of the Jewish ratepayer: “It may be worth considering what exactly is making you feel so unsafe”.

“Of course you have a right to feel safe, but you do not have a right to attempt to quash the calls for peace, freedom and self determination of an entire group of people.’’

Merri-bek councillor James Conlan.

The mother, who did not wish to be identified because of safety fears, said the email was aggressive and did not address concerns for her family.

“Each time I leave home I am on high alert. Sydney Rd has been filled with posters supporting various Pro-Palestinian rallies.

“At our home in Brunswick East I have taken down our mezuzah (Hebrew parchment) on our front door and I’m scrambling to try to get better security fittings for my home.’’

The woman, whose family have lived in the area since the 19th century, said the councillor’s attitude was dismissive and aggressive.

“I just couldn’t believe his email. If the council can’t protect its citizens it’s failed.’’

Anti-Semitic feeling has increased in the area, the resident said.

In his letter, Cr Conlan brushed aside the ratepayer’s concerns.

“I’m losing patience in trying to understand how opposing a genocide is so complicated for some parts of the community.’’

Council Watch president Dean Hurlston said councillors were entitled to robust debate “but they are not entitled to disrespect or disregard other people’s feelings and the impact of their words on them’’.

“Cr Conlan should be ashamed of himself and publicly apologise or resign.’’

Cr Conlan told the Herald Sun his email made it clear that he wanted freedom and liberation for everyone.

“While Palestinian flags and peaceful, anti-genocide protests may make some people feel uncomfortable, they are not an actual threat to anyone’s safety. Feeling unsafe is simply not the same as being unsafe,’’ he said.

Merri-bek was one of the first Victorian councils to pass a motion supporting the people of Gaza and also voted to fly the Palestinian flag outside the council offices.

Cr Conlan quit the Greens last year, accusing the party of racism and in solidarity with Senator Lidia Thorpe.

It can also be revealed that members of the Jewish community recently met Merri-bek mayor Adam Pulford and chief executive Cathy Henderson to express their concerns but were told before talks even began that the council’s position was immovable.

A Merri-bek spokesperson said the mayor introduced the meeting by acknowledging community upset and distress.

“The mayor explained that it was very unlikely that council’s formally resolved position would change. During the meeting, there was exploratory discussion of what measures council could take to support Jewish businesses and residents.’’