‘Progressive’ agitators are risking social cohesion in Australia

Pro-Palestinian protesters gathered in Sydney’s CBD and in front of the Opera House in a rally against Israel. Picture: Jasmine Kazlauskas

As Australians we have always been proud of the way we have been able to build and maintain our multiculturalism. Malcolm Fraser delivered an address in 1981 where he stated: “multiculturalism was a unique Australian achievement.” As Australians social cohesion is our most precious asset.

Australia has maintained our unique place in the world as the most successful example of multicultural pluralism – where every community could find a home and feel welcome, and where our differences were supported and celebrated as part of a broader Australian social fabric. As our national anthem states “we are one and free”.

However, the proliferation of anti-Semitism shows how our multicultural “unique achievement” is fraying at the seams.

The seat of Wentworth is home to the largest Jewish community in Australia. Our community has been targeted. We have experienced intimidating bike convoys, the community was told to “stay home” by the NSW Police Minister rather than be allowed to go to the Opera House to mourn friends and family members killed in the October 7 terrorist attack. Our local kids have been intimidated, members of our arts community have been doxed, and university students at Sydney’s premier university have been threatened when simply trying to go to class.

This rise in antisemitism affects all of us. It has a negative impact on our education, culture and freedom of expression. anti-Semitism is un-Australian. anti-Semitism is against our values as a Western democracy. Anti-Semitism is against our core Australian values. Anti-Semitism is against our most precious Australian asset – social cohesion.

By affecting people’s ability to feel safe in their daily lives, to attend their school or university without being harassed or intimidated, the protests have a serious negative impact on everyone. Think of the future leaders, who are currently being bullied out of bright futures by supporters of a recognised terrorist organisation.

As our institutions concede ground to “progressive” agitators they risk taking us back to some of the darkest times in history. Instead of negotiating and placating, we must stand strong to maintain our social cohesion. This strength must be exhibited by the government. The Albanese Labor government continues to put the cynical accruement of votes before standing up for Australian values. Most recently this was exhibited by Senator Fatima Payman who crossed the floor in defiance of her own Party’s rules. The Coalition allows members to vote against the Party if it is considered a particularly important issue for the member and their constituents. Labor allows no such flexibility or individualism. Senator Payman was finally suspended but once again it was too little too late. This disparity between words and actions which is so evident in this government will continue to undermine our Australian values and our social cohesion.

Ro Knox

Many of us have grown up with stories in our families of people who sacrificed and showed great courage. During World War II my Great Uncle, was dropped behind enemy lines to gather intelligence – risking torture and death. My Grandfather was a Wing Commander for the RAAF, who risked his life to fight for the lives of others. Many of you will have similar stories that you hold close of your own families’ bravery. Stories that form part of our nations’ great narrative. Stories of sacrifice, courage, and fighting for our Australian values.

A country with unwavering social cohesion was the goal. The key lyric in our anthem is “we are one”. “One” does not divide, “One” does not attack, slander or threaten. We are “One” in Australia and we must continue to maintain the unique Australian achievement of multiculturalism and protect our most important asset – social cohesion.

Ro Knox is the Liberal candidate for Wentworth.