The Australian Association for Jewish Studies (AAJS) has serious concerns about the statement by the executive of the Australian Historical Association (AHA) regarding the new Universities Australia definition of antisemitism.
The AHA states that it “opposes all forms of antisemitism and discriminatory hate speech”, however they are concerned that the definition “places new limits on scholarly scrutiny and criticism of Israel and Zionism by Australian academics” and could restrict academic freedom.
On Criticism of Israel and Zionism:
The Universities Australia (UA) definition does nothing to limit criticism of Israel. However, it does seek to clarify where and when criticism of Israel can be antisemitic. As the UA states: “This is when it is grounded in harmful tropes, stereotypes or assumptions and when it calls for the elimination of the State of Israel or all Jews, or when it holds Jewish individuals or communities responsible for Israel’s actions”. This is the correct call.
The AHA states that the new definition “places new limits” on “scholarly scrutiny and criticism of Israel and Zionism”. The key point is that the definition does nothing to limit criticism of Israeli policies nor of Zionism. It simply points out that hatred directed at Jews using classic forms of antisemitic vilification and abuse is not excused simply because one refers to Zionists and not Jews.
As the UA document states: “For most, but not all Jewish Australians, Zionism is a core part of their Jewish identity. Substituting the word ‘Zionist’ for ‘Jew’ does not eliminate the possibility of speech being antisemitic.”
AAJS Executive committee