BREAKING: A neo-Nazi rally took place outside NSW Parliament on Saturday morning, generating significant outrage and condemnation from Jewish leaders and government officials. The protest, organized by members of the National Social Network, lasted approximately seven minutes and was reportedly approved by police, leading to urgent calls for a review of current laws.
The demonstration featured a large banner reading “Abolish the Jewish Lobby,” and attendees chanted slogans including a reference to Hitler, alarming many witnesses. NSW Premier Chris Minns characterized the rally as “shameful,” stating, “If we had our time again, that rally wouldn’t have taken place.” He emphasized the need to confront hate speech and racism, warning that such behavior could escalate if left unchallenged.
In a press conference, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon revealed there had been a “breakdown in communication,” as police had approved the rally based on a Form 1 application received on October 28. “They indicated that approximately 50 people would be attending that protest,” Lanyon stated, acknowledging that the government was not briefed on the protest’s details.
Jewish community leaders expressed deep concern over the incident. David Ossip, president of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, remarked, “Evil left unconfronted becomes evil that is normalized.” He welcomed the government’s commitment to review how the protest was permitted and to evaluate whether any laws were broken.
Adding to the urgency, Jillian Segal, Special Envoy to Combat Antisemitism, condemned the rally as an “abuse of free speech” that veered into hate. She plans to discuss further measures with Minns to combat intolerance in the community.
The Premier has hinted at potential new legislation to strengthen laws against hate speech, but critics questioned why existing laws did not prevent the protest. “One of the disgusting things was that the Anzacs were invoked by one of the speakers at a neo-Nazi rally,” Minns said, highlighting the distortion of history by extremist groups.
Community leaders, including Kellie Sloane MP and Allegra Spender MP, are demanding immediate action, urging law enforcement to utilize incitement to hatred laws against participants. Spender emphasized, “This is not just an attack on Jewish people; it is an attack on all of us.”
As police continue to investigate whether any offenses occurred during the protest, the situation remains tense. The implications of this rally extend beyond Sydney, raising critical discussions about the rise of hate groups and the importance of social cohesion.
Authorities and community leaders are calling for a unified public response against these extremist ideologies, reminding the Australian public that racism, in any form, must not be tolerated. The situation is developing, and further updates are expected as investigations proceed.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent issue as the NSW government navigates the fallout from this shocking event.
