Published: 12 May 2023
Last updated: 5 March 2024
The Netanyahu government’s attacks on democratic values have prompted protests in 68 cities around the world. A Melbourne-based protest group argues Australians have an obligation to get involved.
We appeal to our friends and community members who live here in Australia, are concerned about the situation in Israel and oppose the coup.
The State of Israel and we need you, and it is clear to us that you have reasons for not standing with us here at the protests.
Maybe you don't believe it's right to rally here for the sake of Israel, that we have no right to try to influence what's happening there, or maybe you're afraid the protests will do harm.
We ask for an opportunity to shed light on things from a different perspective ,hoping to persuade you to join our families and us in Israel in this critical struggle.
First, it's worth explaining that we're not a random group of people meeting in a local park. We're part of a worldwide organisation of Israelis, Jews and friends of Israel who have been protesting for months in 68 cities worldwide.
We suggest that you try calling family and friends in Israel and asking them, "What will it mean to you to know that I'm protesting here?"
More than once on the main stage in Kaplan, in Tel Aviv, they referred to these worldwide protests, talked about their power to exert pressure on the government, spoke of the moral boost they give to the protesters, and asked us to continue.
At first, we didn't feel entirely comfortable with the protests here, either. But a short phone call to the family in Israel strengthened us and gave these protests legitimacy and validity. They spoke about how it's not only our right but our duty to support the struggle to maintain democracy. We suggest that you try calling family and friends in Israel and asking them, "What will it mean to you to know that I'm protesting here?"
What gives our activity legitimacy and force? Why do we have the right or obligation to demonstrate in the first place?
Israel is our home. It seems like it will never stop being our home. This is not a matter of geography. Our families and friends are there. Our roots, history, culture, and heart are in Israel. And today, Israel is standing on the brink of an abyss. And it is our conscience that obliges us to protect and fight for it – democratic, liberal and free.
We have thought a lot about the issue of "dirty laundry airing" outside the borders of Israel and the reputational damage it could cause, including the concern about its impact on antisemitism. We believe that even if it is true and causes damage, this damage is negligible compared to the irreversible damage that will be caused if Israel ceases to be a democracy. And we are committed to doing everything we can to stop it, even at the cost of local risk.
We are part of the history of its formation, even though we do not live in Israel. And when future generations ask us, "Where were you?" and "What did you do in 2023?" we will be able to look them straight in the eye and say that we were here for them and did everything we could; we objected, opposed, did not remain silent and made our voice heard. And most importantly, we didn't stand idly by.
As long as protesters are on the streets in Israel, we will continue to protest here. Every Sunday at 11 am in Caulfield Park in Melbourne.
Join us now, come to the rally, talk to us and participate. If, God forbid, the regime revolution is completed, it will be too late.
We will not have another chance.
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