Tuesday, 14 November 2023

Ministers statements: Middle East conflict

Ingrid STITT (Western Metropolitan – Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (12:21): Today I rise as Minister for Multicultural Affairs to acknowledge the distressing events in Israel and Gaza and the ongoing impact on our communities here in Victoria. Many Victorians have lost loved ones, and many hold grave concern for the welfare of friends and family. Over the last month I have met with leaders from both the Islamic and the Jewish communities, and the common thread through all of these conversations was a desire for every human to live free from the threat of violence. I also know that, sadly, these communities share a sense of fear for their own safety and that of loved ones here in Victoria during this troubling time.

We cannot always control what happens overseas, but each of us can make a contribution to ensuring that everyone can live free from the threat of violence or vilification here in Victoria. No matter our faith, the colour of our skin or where we were born, we all have the right to feel safe in our homes, in our schools and in our places of worship. We must not allow conflict overseas to become conflict in our streets. We must all show leadership during this challenging time to promote peace, empathy and understanding with and between our communities. I call on everyone here in this place to be part of spreading a message of unity and to support each other in this time of great need. Let us not give in to those who might seek to divide us. Let us stand together against attempts to plant the seeds of hate and division. We are stronger as a community, as Victorians, when we work together to ensure that Victoria remains a place where everyone can live side by side safely and in peace, where everyone can belong.