Lecture by Ronit Briman: “Australian Jewry Before and After 7 October”

What happens to Jews living far from Israel when the reality here changes dramatically? How have the events of October 7 and the war that followed affected their lives, their relationships with those around them, and their sense of security and belonging?

Australian Jewry Before and After October 7

Ronit Briman, a clinical and educational psychologist, an active participant in the activities at Beit Kosar, and someone with long-standing family and social connections to Australian Jewry, will share in this lecture the knowledge she has acquired and her personal experiences.

First, a brief background will be provided on Australia and the history of its Jewish community, its close and warm relationship with the State of Israel, and its contribution to the country over the years.

Against this backdrop, we will examine the impact of the events of October 7 and the war that broke out in their wake, which caused a profound shock among Australian Jews. At first, the shock manifested itself in anxiety for the fate of relatives in Israel, a sense of horror following the massacre, and concern for the country’s future. However, very quickly, the effects of the events reached their lives in Australia as well.

Large pro-Palestinian demonstrations will be described, in which antisemitic expressions were heard, alongside harassment of Jewish institutions and serious acts of violence, including the murderous attack at a 2025 Hanukkah event on Sydney’s waterfront.

The lecture will focus on the personal experiences of Australian Jews: the reactions they encountered from non-Jewish friends, in the organizations to which they belong, and on social media, as well as the changes that took place in their feelings and relationships with those around them. Several monologues by Australian Jewish women of different ages and from diverse professional backgrounds will be presented. They will share their feelings, thoughts, and dilemmas following experiences they had with colleagues and friends.

Through these personal stories, we will try to understand how the events of this period affected the women’s lives, their sense of identity and belonging, and their personal security.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation of participation and a refund are possible up to two hours before the activity begins.

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