‘Never Again is Now’ rally in Gold Coast

Support for our Queensland Jewish community is well and truly alive: Rabbi Cohen and many other Queenslanders attended the “Never Again Is Now” rally in Roma Street Parklands on Sunday 9 May to stand up together against antisemitism and to say no to hate in Australia.

The rally was a collaboration by “Never Again Is Now” – a grassroots organisation run by Mark Leach – and the Queensland Jewish Board of Deputies, which saw over two thousands participants in attendance.

There were people holding up signs with messages of support, waving Israel and Australian flags, and dancing with other attendees. The overall message throughout the event was one of support, love and acceptance, as opposed to the hate, ignorance and evil that other groups make their events and protests all about.

Rabbi Cohen gave a speech at the end of the rally to thank the community for their continuing support and to lead the crowd in a prayer for the safe release of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in Gaza – which was very moving especially as the rally was held the day the 4 hostages were released by the IDF.

The event was also well attended by Senators, members of Parliament and leaders of other multicultural faith communities in the area – and it was heartwarming to see each one stand, one after another, to vocally express their support for our Jewish community and to stand up against hate.

by Ben Naday