RUDD MUST CHANGE SUMMIT DATES
Kevin Rudd’s decision to hold his Australia 2020 summit during Passover is insensitive and discriminates against Australia’s Jewish community.
Mr Rudd says he wants to “bring into the tent those who have got ideas to contribute to these long-term challenges,” yet he has chosen dates that will preclude most of the Jewish community from attending.
The Rudd Government can hardly plead ignorance. Passover is listed on the “Calendar of Cultural & Religious Dates” on the Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship’s website.
It is simply unacceptable for the summit to proceed on these dates. Kevin Rudd must announce new dates that do not clash with important faith festivals or national events.
The selection of these dates for the Jewish community is the equivalent of holding a summit over Christmas or Easter.
Excluding Australia’s Jewish community from a national forum would be a grave mistake. It is a mistake the Rudd Government should immediately correct.
The Honourable Mitch Fifield
Mitch Fifield, Former Australian Senator and Cabinet Minister
