Feb 23 • 05:48 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Police investigate alleged antisemitic assault at scouts event

Victoria Police are investigating an alleged antisemitic assault involving a teenager at a Scouts event, where he was verbally abused and punched for wearing religious and national symbols.

Victoria Police launched an investigation into an alleged antisemitic assault that occurred during a Scouts event in Lardner Park, Gippsland. A teenager named Joshua Levy reported that he was verbally abused and subsequently punched by an unknown male after he displayed his support for Israel by wearing a kippah and draping an Israeli flag around himself. The incident highlights issues of antisemitism in community settings, as it not only represents a personal attack but also reflects broader societal intolerance.

Levy described the confrontation, stating that the male approached him and aggressively questioned his attire, to which Levy responded affirmatively about his support for Israel. This led to verbal abuse and physical assault, raising significant concerns for the safety of individuals expressing their cultural and religious identity in public spaces. Scouts Victoria reacted promptly by sending the assailant home from the event and issuing a written apology, acknowledging the incident's seriousness.

The police investigation aims to uncover the specifics of the attack and ensure that responsible actions are taken against antisemitism. Community organizations and leaders are likely to respond to this incident by promoting awareness and advocating for a safer environment for all individuals, irrespective of their background or beliefs. This case not only draws attention to the responsibilities of organizations like Scouts but also to the collective effort required to combat hate in society.

📡 Similar Coverage