Melbourne radio station called out for 'dumb white dogs' anti-Semitic sign

A Melbourne radio station and wine bar, Hope St Radio, find themselves amid a storm of controversy after hosting a event featuring an inflammatory sign that called Israelis "dumb white dogs" and urged to "abolish Israel."

The banner, part of an event by First Nations collective This Mob, sparked intense online outrage, with critics accusing the station of promoting hate and anti-Semitism.

Anti-Defamation Commission chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich condemned the banner, labeling it "venomous" and stating that such displays of anti-Semitism fuel hostility dangerously. He emphasised the importance of rejecting such sentiments entirely.

Meanwhile, Peter Horovitz, a vocal opponent of anti-Semitism, expressed his dismay online, calling out the station for endorsing the destruction of Israel and the potential harm it could cause.

In response, Hope St Radio issued a statement denying any wrongdoing, asserting their commitment to condemning racism, including anti-Semitism.

They explained that the event aimed to stand in solidarity with various communities, including their 'Jewish neighbours'. Despite their statement, Dr Abramovich and Mr Horovitz criticised it as insufficient, calling for a more sincere response from the radio station.