JCCV happy with outcome of antisemitic incident’s investigation

December 9, 2020 by J-Wire Newsdesk
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The Jewish Community Council of Victoria has welcomed the conclusion of the investigation into Dr Arthur Nasis who sent a letter with antisemitic remarks to his sister which was received inadvertently by the subjects of its content.

Professor Arthur Nasis. Facebook

The Monitoring Antisemitism World website reported: “Dr Arthur Nasis sent the email advice to his sister, who was negotiating with her tenants over a rent reduction.

The tenants, Paul and Susannah Swiatlo, were mistakenly sent the email. In it, cardiologist Dr Nasis told his sister: “Ignore for one week. In one week, write back and say ‘I will review all information and get back to you within one week’, that gives you 2-3 weeks. If you sell Ave by then — tell him to pack his Jew bags and fuck off.”

The JCCV issued a statement saying “All Victorians must stand firmly against antisemitism. We must support those who become victims of antisemitism. We are not, however, a vindictive community. Except in the absolute worst of cases, those who make mistakes, learn from them and are genuinely remorseful should have a path to redemption.

Dr Nasis has expressed his remorse and sorrow. He has undertaken direct educational dialogue about antisemitism, Jewish history and the Jewish community. He has made public and private apologies, to the victim, the Jewish community, and colleagues within the hospital where he works. Monash Health has issued him with a first and final warning, a move that ensures any similar behaviour in the future would result in his employment being terminated. It is a strong and appropriate response.

Dr Nasis will also be taking a period of extended leave to reflect and further educate himself on the harm his actions caused. The JCCV has offered to assist with this process.”

MAW further reported: “Dr Nasis, a consultant cardiologist and director of acute cardiac services at Monash Heart, said: ‘I misused a term to a family member that has been conceived as racism, which was in absolutely no way my intention. I am truly sorry … There is not a single fibre of my being that is racist.’”
Ms Swiatlo said: ‘I welcome his regret’.

“We must now move forward as a community. The message we send, individually and as a community, must encourage the rejection of antisemitism, even to those who have displayed poor judgement in the past,” stated JCCV president Dr Oboler.  “Only then can we root out this insidious hate and ensure a safer more cohesive and respectful future.”

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