Australian choir denies that antisemitism influenced canceling Bondi victims benefit concert

Reports suggesting antisemitism played a role in the Australian Hellenic Choir's cancellation of a benefit concert for Bondi Beach massacre victims have been strongly refuted by the choir. In a statement, the management committee asserted that such claims are inaccurate and that antisemitism, or any form of discrimination, has no place within their organization. The choir emphasizes its commitment to inclusivity, respect, and cultural exchange.

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Recent media coverage has inaccurately suggested that members of the Australian Hellenic Choir are antisemitic. This is not true! The Choir stands for inclusivity, respect, and cultural exchange. Antisemitism, or any other form of discrimination, has no place in our organization.

The Hellenic Choir explained that the proposed collaborative concert with the Sydney Jewish Choral Society, scheduled for June 28, was canceled due to time constraints. The choir had a major performance celebrating Greek music composer Giorgos Zampetas on May 31, and the proximity of the two events created a scheduling conflict. According to the choir, a majority of its members voted against participating due to these time limitations.

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Antisemitism had no place in this decision whatsoever!

However, the narrative presented by the choir management committee appears to conflict with statements made by others involved. The Australian newspaper reported that the Hellenic Choir president, James Tsolakis, had acknowledged antisemitism within the Greek community and expressed anxiety over the political climate in Australia as factors leading to the withdrawal. Furthermore, Anne Spira, chairperson of the Sydney Jewish Choral Society, indicated that some choir members had expressed concerns for their personal safety and security.

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As a result, the majority of the choir voted against participating due to time constraints.

While the Hellenic Choir management committee stated that remarks about antisemitism were made without their authorization and do not reflect the organization's values, they did not directly address the concerns about the political climate. This discrepancy leaves questions about the full reasons behind the cancellation, particularly regarding the sensitive issue of antisemitism and the broader political environment in Australia following the tragic Bondi Beach attack.

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Tsolakis had told The Australian there was antisemitism in the Greek community, and that the factors that led to withdrawal was the anxiety over antisemitism and political sentiment in Australia.