The evening when Hindus, Jains and Sikhs prepare to celebrate the holy festival of Deepawali, we have learned that two Hindu temples in Canberra were vandalised earlier this week. Sacred items were destroyed in these temples and communal donations were stolen.
The Jewish community unequivocally condemns this appalling criminal behaviour in the strongest terms.
These unacceptable crimes are an attack on the vibrant, peaceful and cohesive multicultural society we have all worked hard to build. All Australians should be free to practise their faiths free from intimidation and harassment and places of worship should be sanctuaries of peace.
This is especially true for the Hindu community in Australia, which contributes profoundly to all aspects of Australian life.
No community should be subject to this kind of victimisation and hate, particularly on the eve of one of their most sacred holidays.
The Jewish community always stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the Hindu community, but we particularly do so today in the face of these unprovoked acts of hate.
We will contact both temples tomorrow to express our support and solidarity.
We also take this opportunity to pray for the wellbeing and safety of Hindus in Bangladesh, who continue to be persecuted. This must end immediately.
Diwali is said to represent the victory of light over darkness. May its spirit give strength to all the Hindus, Jains and Sikhs.
Shubh Deepawali!
