Key Takeaways
- A Jewish bakery in Sydney, Avner’s Bakery, has closed down due to safety concerns after a terror attack at a Hanukah gathering in Bondi.
- The bakery had faced two years of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and intimidation, making it impossible to ensure the safety of staff and customers.
- The closure is a result of the increasing threats and incidents of antisemitism in Australia, making it difficult for Jewish businesses and events to operate safely.
- The bakery’s owner, Ed Halmagyi, had previously spoken out about the antisemitic incidents, including threatening notes and vandalism, but the latest attack has forced him to close the business.
Introduction to the Closure
A Jewish bakery in Sydney, Avner’s Bakery, has closed its doors for good after a terror attack at a Hanukah gathering in Bondi. The bakery, which was run by celebrity chef Ed Halmagyi, had been a target of antisemitic harassment, vandalism, and intimidation for two years. The owner, Ed Halmagyi, has decided to close the bakery, citing the inability to ensure the safety of staff and customers. A notice on the bakery’s window reads, "The world has changed. Our world has changed. In the wake of the pogrom at Bondi, one thing has become clear – it is no longer possible to make outwardly, publicly, proudly Jewish places and events safe in Australia."
The History of Antisemitic Incidents
The bakery had faced numerous antisemitic incidents, including threatening notes, graffiti, and vandalism. In October last year, Halmagyi shared an image of a threatening note on Instagram, which read "Be Careful" in shaky handwriting. He described the incident as "Being Jewish in Sydney, 2024 edition." Despite the threats, Halmagyi had previously stated that he would not be intimidated by the "cosplay radicals" who were behind the incidents. However, the latest attack has forced him to reevaluate the safety of his business and staff. The NSW police had been investigating the incidents, and a 17-year-old boy was dealt with under the Youth Offenders Act for making threatening phone calls to the bakery.
The Impact of the Closure
The closure of Avner’s Bakery is a significant loss for the Jewish community in Sydney. The bakery was not only a place to buy traditional Jewish bread and pastries but also a community hub where people could gather and celebrate Jewish festivals and events. The closure is a result of the increasing threats and incidents of antisemitism in Australia, making it difficult for Jewish businesses and events to operate safely. The incident highlights the need for increased support and protection for Jewish communities and businesses in Australia. The Australian government and law enforcement agencies must take concrete steps to address the rising tide of antisemitism and ensure that Jewish communities can live and operate safely.
The Response to the Closure
The closure of Avner’s Bakery has sparked an outpouring of support from the community. Many people have taken to social media to express their sadness and outrage at the closure, with some calling for increased action to address antisemitism in Australia. The incident has also highlighted the need for increased awareness and education about antisemitism and its impact on Jewish communities. The Australian government and community leaders must work together to promote tolerance and understanding and to ensure that Jewish communities can thrive without fear of persecution or intimidation.
Conclusion and Call to Action
The closure of Avner’s Bakery is a tragic reminder of the impact of antisemitism on Jewish communities. The incident highlights the need for increased support and protection for Jewish businesses and events and for greater awareness and education about antisemitism. The Australian government and community leaders must take concrete steps to address the rising tide of antisemitism and ensure that Jewish communities can live and operate safely. As Ed Halmagyi said, "The world has changed. Our world has changed." It is time for Australia to take action to ensure that Jewish communities can thrive without fear of persecution or intimidation. If you or someone you know is experiencing antisemitism or needs support, there are resources available, including Beyond Blue, Lifeline, and Griefline in Australia, and Mind in the UK.
