Western Australian Labor MP Jessica Page has delivered a powerful and urgent critique of her own parliament, arguing that a culture of silence and indecision has allowed anti-Semitism to fester within its walls. The member for Fremantle has called for immediate and decisive action to address the issue and protect the state's Jewish community.
A Culture of Silence and Indecision
In a candid statement, Jessica Page did not mince words. She asserted that the failure to act swiftly and definitively against anti-Semitic sentiment has created a permissive environment. This inaction, she contends, has directly harmed Jewish West Australians who feel increasingly unsafe and marginalised. The MP highlighted that the problem is not merely about isolated incidents but a broader cultural failing within the political sphere.
Page's remarks point to a systemic issue where concerns are not adequately addressed, and decisive leadership is lacking. She emphasised that this silence is not neutrality but a form of complicity that allows prejudice to grow unchecked. The call to action comes amid heightened tensions and increased reports of anti-Semitic behaviour nationally and internationally.
The Need for Immediate and Concrete Action
The Fremantle MP's statement is a direct challenge to her colleagues and the institution as a whole. She is demanding more than just words or symbolic gestures. Page is pushing for tangible, concrete measures to be implemented without delay. This includes:
- Clearer parliamentary standards and protocols for addressing hate speech and discrimination.
- Enhanced education and training for all members and staff to recognise and combat anti-Semitism.
- Stronger public leadership to unequivocally condemn anti-Jewish rhetoric and actions.
Her intervention signals a significant moment of internal accountability, urging the WA Parliament to look inward and reform its own practices. The goal is to foster an environment where the Jewish community and all minority groups feel represented, heard, and protected.
Broader Implications for Political Leadership
Jessica Page's forthright critique extends beyond the specific issue of anti-Semitism. It touches on the fundamental role of political leadership in shaping community standards and social cohesion. By calling out indecision, she underscores a leader's responsibility to act courageously against hate, even when it is politically uncomfortable.
The MP's stance places her at the forefront of a difficult but necessary conversation within Australian politics. It challenges the notion that such issues are only federal concerns, highlighting that state parliaments have a direct and profound impact on the lived experience of their constituents. The response from other WA politicians and community leaders will now be closely watched, as pressure mounts for a formal and effective response to her calls for change.
Ultimately, Page's message is one of urgency. The time for deliberation has passed; the time for action is now. The integrity of the parliament and the safety of the Jewish community in Western Australia depend on it.
