AT2 Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is antisemitism?
The hatred of, hostility towards, or prejudice against Jewish people
Antisemitism has persisted throughout history, often viewing Jewish people as a dehumanized collective.
What event on October 7th, 2023, contributed to a rise in antisemitism?
Hamas bombed Israel and took Israeli hostages
This event led to a military response from Israel, resulting in significant casualties among Palestinians.
What was the estimated number of Palestinians killed by the Israeli military by May 2025?
More than 50 thousand
Most of the casualties were women and children.
What significant change in antisemitic crimes occurred in Australia since October 2024?
A 4-fold increase in antisemitic crimes
This includes acts of vandalism and violence against Jewish individuals and institutions.
What specific incidents demonstrate the rise of antisemitic attacks in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs?
Antisemitic messages, slurs, swastikas on property, arson of a childcare center
These incidents highlight the severity and distressing nature of the attacks.
What is the first step in the process of passing a bill in Australia’s Federal Parliament?
The bill is introduced to the House of Representatives
Most bills go through the House first, although some may start in the Senate.
What are the three readings a bill goes through in the House of Representatives?
- 1st reading: Introduction of the bill
- 2nd reading: Debate and vote on the main idea
- 3rd reading: Final vote on the bill
The Senate follows a similar process after the House.
What is the role of the Governor General in the legislative process?
Grants royal assent to bills passed by Parliament
This is the final step for a bill to become law in Australia.
What are the main features of the Crimes Legislation Amendment (Racial and Religious Hatred) Bill 2025?
- Clarifies graffiti as a public act
- Bans Nazi symbols near Jewish sites
- Makes hate-motivated crimes an aggravating factor
This bill is subject to review after 2 years.
What does the Crimes Amendment (Places of Worship) Bill 2025 prohibit?
Blocking or harassing people at places of worship
Police can issue move-on orders for protests near these locations.
What is the penalty for offenses under the new laws introduced in February 2025?
Up to 2 years’ imprisonment and/or 200 penalty units for individuals
Corporations can face penalties of up to 1000 penalty units.
What new powers have been granted to the NSW police in response to antisemitism?
The power to issue move-on orders at protests near places of worship
This amendment enhances police authority in managing public gatherings.
What is Strikeforce Pearl?
A taskforce established to investigate antisemitic hate crimes
Initially formed to address hateful graffiti and firebombing.
What mixed reactions have the new laws received?
- Premier Chris Minns and Attorney General support the laws
- Critics want to expand the scope to include other vulnerable groups
- Concerns about violation of rights to assembly and free speech
The laws have sparked debate regarding their effectiveness and fairness.
How many arrests have been made under Strikeforce Pearl since December 2024?
31 arrests
Charges laid have mostly been under existing laws, not the new legislation.
What does the lack of prosecutions under the new hate crime legislation suggest?
The new laws may be largely symbolic
Despite raising awareness, they have not effectively impacted legal proceedings.