Honey and bee sting sentiments: Australian Jewry and post-October 7 Israel attachment

• In Event: It's complicated: Toward a more nuanced understanding of Israel Attachment in the Anglosphere

Abstract

The events of 7 October 2023 posed multifaceted and ongoing challenges to Israelis and the global Jewish community. Among those touched are Australian Jews (N=117,000), the world’s eighth-largest Jewish community.
The aftermath of October 7 evoked deeply charged emotions within Australian Jewry. On one hand, there were stirring rallies, impassioned speakers, uplifting social media content, and widespread support from both Jewish and non-Jewish communities. On the other hand, there arose profound concerns for Israelis and Israel, alongside distressing, saddening, and enraging social media narratives. This period also witnessed a surge in antisemitism in Australia, instilling fear and a sense of abandonment among non-Jewish colleagues, friends, and family. Naomi Shemer’s “honey and bee sting” lyrics aptly capture these conflicting and juxtaposed emotions.
Australian Jewry exhibits strong Zionist sentiments and a deep attachment to Israel compared to other English-speaking diaspora communities. How would such a populace navigate the conflicting and contradictory emotional landscape following the events of October 7?
This paper delves into the interplay between Jewish engagement, positive and negative post-October 7 experiences, and Israel attachment among self-identifying Jews in Australia. Utilizing statistical models, it aims to discern the impact of Jewish engagement and emotional experiences on the Israel attachment of a nationally representative sample of Australian Jews. Drawing data from the sixth week of the Israel-Hamas conflict, this paper seeks to pinpoint the most transformative emotional experiences for Australian Jews, thereby informing communal policies focused on advocacy and support.

Author

• Adina Bankier-Karp, Australian Centre for Jewish Civilisation