Two descendants of holocaust survivors will speak at Parliament House in Canberra today at an event hosted by the Parliamentary Friends of Palestine and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN).
The speakers are Avigail Abarbenel (ex Israel) and Assoc Prof Peter Slezak (Sydney). Avigail is the editor of the recently released book “Beyond Tribal Loyalties”, an anthology of writings by Jewish people who advocate for Palestinian rights. Professor Slezak contributed a chapter to the book
The event is part of a three day APAN lobbying effort with meetings planned with individual parliamentarians including Foreign Minister Senator Bob Carr.
APAN – The Australia Palestine Advocacy Network – is a broad-based civil society group including churches, unions, aid groups, human rights groups, Palestinian and Jewish groups and former diplomats.
Speaking ahead of the meetings at Parliament House today, APAN President, the Rev Jim Barr urged Australian politicians to carefully consider the evolving issues in Palestine and Israel.
“We encourage all Australian politicians of goodwill to examine Israel’s disregard for international law,” Rev Barr said.
These breaches include the ongoing settlement expansion in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, the separation wall condemned by the International Court of Justice, the demolition of houses as part of ongoing forced removal of Palestinians and failing to honor its commitments regarding administrative detention.
“Peace in the Middle East will remain a fragile hope for the future while Israel continues to build settlements on Palestinian land, builds a separation wall declared illegal by the International Court of Justice, and tightens control on Palestinian civilians,” Rev Barr said.
Event Details:
Tue 5pm; IR 5. Speakers will address gathering 5-5.45pm.
Speakers include Sussan Ley MP; Maria Vamvakinou MP; Avigail Abarbenel; Peter Slezak.
Interviews with Peter and Avigail available from 4.30pm at IR 5, or other times on requ