Melbourne Nursery Faces Backlash Over Alleged Antisemitic Rejection

A nursery in Melbourne, Australia, is experiencing significant backlash following an incident involving a rejection message sent to a Jewish job applicant. The text, reportedly containing antisemitic remarks, has drawn widespread criticism and sparked protests, leading to a public apology from the business.

The incident occurred when a 24-year-old Jewish woman, who chose to remain anonymous, applied for a position at The Garden of Eden Nursery in Albert Park. According to the *Herald Sun*, the rejection message included a statement from co-owner Brett Dahan, who allegedly told the woman that the role had been filled by “someone with a semblance of humanity” and suggested she should leave the country. The message further included inflammatory phrases such as “Free Palestine and end genocide NOW,” leaving the applicant shocked and disheartened.

The young woman expressed her disbelief at the hostility she faced after moving to Australia, believing it to be a welcoming country. In her own words, she stated, “I was judged, not as a person, but as an Israeli.” This incident has resonated deeply within the Jewish community, prompting protests outside the nursery as civil rights activists condemned the remarks as “repugnant.”

In a statement released on March 17, 2024, The Garden of Eden Nursery, operated by twin brothers Brett and Scott Dahan, offered an apology to the Jewish community and expressed regret over the message sent by a staff member. The nursery stated, “We are deeply upset and disappointed by the content of the message, which in no way reflects the values, standards, or spirit of our business or team.” The company also indicated that the matter is being addressed internally.

Despite the apology, the response has been met with skepticism. Dr. Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the Anti-Defamation Commission, criticized the nursery for not holding the individual accountable. He stated on social media, “Mr. Dahan’s repugnant text wasn’t a slip. It was a deliberate, written act meant to humiliate and degrade.” He emphasized that true accountability would involve more than a general apology, urging for a direct and personal apology to the affected job seeker.

Australia’s Equal Opportunity Act prohibits discrimination against job applicants based on nationality, raising questions about the nursery’s hiring practices. The backlash from this incident highlights ongoing concerns about antisemitism and the treatment of Jewish individuals in Australia.

As protests continue and discussions around accountability unfold, the case has sparked a wider conversation about inclusivity and respect in the workplace. The Garden of Eden Nursery has not yet responded to further inquiries regarding the incident.