An open letter to the Jewish school students of Australia

February 3, 2025 by Julian Leeser
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One of the best parts of my job as a member of parliament is meeting and talking with young Australian school students.

You are always so friendly, positive and optimistic and it always gives me hope about Australia.

This week, I’ve been thinking about young Jewish Australians as you head back to school.

The first days of a school year are always a time of excitement and nervousness – excitement about seeing your friends and getting to learn new things; and perhaps a little nervousness about the challenges of new classes, new teachers or even a new school.

As you put on your school clothes and get your backpack, I know this year you may feel nervous about school for different reasons.

You might be feeling extra anxious because of what you’ve seen on the news, in your suburb or heard your parents talking about.

And if you are attending a Jewish school you might have noticed extra security at the school – perhaps more police officers, more armed guards and more emergency drills.

Or maybe you might be attending a non-Jewish school where teachers or students know you are Jewish. Perhaps they have reached out to your family to offer their support or perhaps you might feel a little bit isolated and alone.

I have a message for you that I want you to understand: it’s going to be okay.

Julian Leeser

The adults in your life – your parents, family, teachers, and leaders like me-are working hard to make sure you are safe and that our community is protected.

While there are a few bad people who have let hate in their hearts about Jewish people, the overwhelming majority of Australians are open, generous and wonderful to Jewish Australians. They are because they know we are all Australians together.

But in these unusual times, you have a part to play too. Your job is to stand tall, go to school, try your best, and bring joy, or as we say in Yiddish, naches to your family.

Give every opportunity a go.

Why is this important? Because one day, it will be your turn to help make our country safer,
stronger, and kinder.

I know you and your classmates will grow up and do wonderful things – you might become police officers helping to solve crimes and keep our streets safe; or judges ensuring justice is served; or other roles that make a difference like doctors, builders, teachers, rabbis or entrepreneurs.

You are here for a purpose. So whatever path you choose, you will make a difference.

If your parents or teachers ask you to be a little more cautious for your own safety, listen to them.

They re doing it because our country is facing some challenges right now, and they want to keep you safe.

Whether you’re at a Jewish school or the only Jewish child in your class, be proud of who you are.

Remember pride in who you are is something you feel inside. Pride is not what you wear but what is in your heart.

Remember, being a proud Jew is about celebrating the beauty of our tradition which teaches us to treat others with loving kindness. Make your behaviour a good reflection on your family and our community and always stand up for others. These are important Australian values too.

If you see someone being bullied or treated unfairly, don’t be a bystander. Stand up for them. Bullies need to be confronted, and kindness needs to be championed.
If things get tough this year, remember – you are never alone.

Talk to your teachers, they are there to help you. And remember that your mum and dad love you more than anything, and they’ve been through challenges too. If you’re lucky enough to have grandparents, or even great grandparents, lean on them as well. Their wisdom and love are a reminder that resilience is part of our heritage, of how far we’ve come and how much goodness there is in this country.You are precious to your family. You are precious to our community and you are precious to our country.

We are counting on you to play your part.

Do your best, have fun and be proud of who you are.

I wish you a year of great learning, wonderful friendships, and countless opportunities.
Australia needs you, and I know you’ll make us proud.

Go well!

Julian Leeser – a proud Jewish dad of two and Federal Member for Berowra

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