“I know what antisemitism is all about. I had never experienced antisemitism [before] in
Australia.”
Australia has one of the largest communities of Holocaust survivors in the world –
about 35,000 emigrated here in the aftermath of World War II.
Last year, there were 2,500 living survivors recorded in Australia, according to the Claims
Conference, a non-profit which helps secure compensation for Holocaust survivors around
the world.
Mr Boas says while states have held smaller events for survivors, it’s his understanding that
this is the first national reunion of its kind.
And one surprising topic will be off the table.
“One of the things that I made sure of, we were not going to talk about the Holocaust,” Mr
Boas said.
“I want this to be a joyful luncheon. We all know about the Holocaust.
“Let’s celebrate living in Australia. We’ve all – majority, I can’t speak for everybody – have
had a good life in Australia. I certainly have.
“I pretty well feel sure that most Holocaust survivors feel like I feel – that Australia, at one
stage in our life, was the greatest country in the world.
“Unfortunately, today, with all this antisemitism going on and the [Federal] government not
doing anything about it, no matter what they say, it’s getting worse even today.”
The reunion is being supported by NSW Premier Chris Minns, who will give a speech
alongside Israeli ambassador Amir Maimon.
“This will be an important opportunity for Holocaust survivors to reflect, to remember, and to
reunite,” Mr Minns told Sky News.
“With the number of Holocaust survivors falling as each year passes, moments to come
together like this take on an extra significance.
“Holocaust survivors have made major contributions to NSW, Australia and the world.
“Their stories of survival are as important today as they have ever been.”
Mr Boas says he is grateful for Mr Minns’ support.
“We had a good talk about antisemitism and we had a talk about the luncheon,” Mr Boas
said. “He has allocated a grant to us to hold it, which I’m really pleased about. He is a terrific
premier.”
Mr Boas urged survivors to contact the Australian Association of Holocaust Survivors if they
have not yet received an invitation.
