Adam Braitberg was part of the Equal Love Rally in Melbourne on November 20, 2010. I took a photo of him and a friend Tyger-Lee Baise, both proudly displaying their blue Habonim Dror shirts, and showing their support for equal human rights for all Australians.
Because they participated in this rally, as part of a Jewish organisation, they came under attack on the AJN Watch web site. You can read all about it in my previous blog. Keep an eye on the comments on the AJN Watch site though, as the conversation continues (to dismay).
Yesterday Adam’s father, George, made a profound statement, and in doing so has moved me deeply.
I am Adam’s father. To those that see fit to judge someone you don’t know or have ever met, I ask you to explain what right you think you have to behave in this manner. As Jews we are well aware of the history of bigotry, slander and false accusation. To judge my son, without knowing him is perpetuate the belief that “difference” in itself is an excuse for hatred. How ashamed am I of Jews who show such intolerance. I love you Adam. Dad
George
Thursday, December 16, 2010 11:17:00 PM
Adam’s father is a wonderful role model for showing unconditional love and acceptance of his son Adam. He is an example to every member of the Melbourne Jewish community and the wider Australian society on how we must bring up our children. It is only with this positive and supportive attitude that we can start to overcome the horrifying level of suicide, self-harm and mental health issues that (religious) intolerance afflicts on Australia’s same-sex attracted youth.
Thank you Mr Braitberg. You and Adam have demonstrated far greater leadership ability and are infinitely better role models than those who currently claim to speak on behalf of the Jewish community. They don’t need a ‘GLBT Reference Group’ to arrogantly identify and address “our issues”. They need intelligent and compassionate leaders like you.