Jewish teenager allegedly assaulted in antisemitic attack at scout camp
A teenager who was harassed for wearing a kippah and carrying an Israeli flag was later attacked at a scout camp in Melbourne’s south-east, police allege.
The 18-year-old was walking in Lardner Park, south of Warragul, home to a weekend camp for Boy Scouts, at around 2pm on Saturday. Another young man allegedly verbally abused him for wearing a kippah and carrying “that flag”.
That night, at an event organized by Boy Scouts Victoria, the same teenager (a fellow scout) tapped the 18-year-old on the shoulder and then punched him in the face three times in front of his peers, according to the Anti-Defamation Commission.
Police said the “targeted” anti-Semitic incident, which took place around 9pm, was reported to officers the following day.
Seven News said Saturday night’s event was full of praise.
Police said the teenager, named Joshua, whose last name is withheld for privacy reasons, was slightly injured.
He was shaken by the incident and immediately reported the situation to the scout leaders outside the venue. Joshua told the commission that he was afraid and sorry that he did not have the freedom to express his culture and religion.
“[I have] “I always heard about antisemitic attacks, but I never thought it would happen to me,” he said.
The commission stated that he was afraid to return to the Boy Scouts if he was attacked again.
“[Joshua] First he was threatened and marked with words. “He was then ambushed with punches to his face,” said commission chairman Dvir Abramovich, adding: “We are watching something dark and rotten in this country getting worse every day.”
Joshua’s family were outraged by the incident, which proved that antisemitism “can turn ugly at any time”, Seven News reported.
Scouts Victoria said they were aware of the incident. Executive director Jon McGregor said more than 1,500 young people and volunteers attended the camp, where Scouts Victoria’s top priority was the safety and welfare of young people.
“An argument broke out between two young people and one of the young people involved was immediately sent home,” McGregor said in a statement.
“The teenager who was suspended from the camp regrets his actions and has issued a written apology to everyone involved. Scouts Victoria is an inclusive organization that does not tolerate discrimination, harassment or violence.”
McGregor said Scouts Victoria supports both young people and their families.
On Monday, police interviewed and released a 17-year-old boy. The suspect is expected to be charged on a summons to appear in juvenile court at a later date.
Multiculturalism Minister Ingrid Stitt said she was appalled by reports that the young Jewish man was attacked at the Boy Scouts camp and the government condemned antisemitism.
“No one needs to fear for their safety,” Stitt said. “This attack comes at a time when our Jewish community is still grieving and fearing for their safety following the Bondi attack in December.”
Police said there was no place for antisemitic, racist or “hate-based” behavior in society.
“Victoria Police understands that incidents of antisemitism can leave communities feeling targeted, threatened and vulnerable,” a police spokesperson said. “The investigation into the incident continues”
Police have appealed for anyone with information about the alleged attack to come forward.
You can contact Crimestoppers at: www.crimestoppersvic.com.au or from 1800 333 000.
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