I’m being gaslighted – and I’m too scared to put my name to this article

An online rumour claims the “Kill the Jews” shouts at the Sydney Opera House never happened. A Jewish witness shares how it feels to have the lived experience of antisemitism denied.

On Saturday October 7, as news of the Hamas massacre in Israel hit, a profound sense of helplessness enveloped me, as it did many in Australia’s Jewish and Israeli communities. It was one of the most challenging moments of my life.

My primary instinct was to stay informed and connected. I talked with worried family and friends in Israel and tuned into Israeli news channels, seeking updates continuously. As hours passed, anxiety heightened, and a growing urge to actively engage emerged.

By Sunday, concerned Australian friends and colleagues were reaching out, expressing solidarity and checking in with me. On Monday, I was offered days off from work to recuperate and on Tuesday, non-Jewish friends delivered food, so I did not need to cook.

As an Israeli who migrated to Australian many years ago, I have always felt that Australia is secure for Jews and the right place for my family. Neither I nor my partner or children has ever encountered antisemitism or hatred. Our experiences were always positive.

So, when I learned that the Opera House would be lit up in blue and white in support of Israel, and that there would be a demonstration in support of the Palestinians, I ignored the controversial communal warning that Jews should stay away and decided that I would go to the Opera House.