Gerald Lynch
A Brimbank councillor has been victim of threats and abuse after calling for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Councillor Viriginia Tachos led the charge on a motion calling for an end to the conflict between Israel and Palestine at the council meeting on February 20.
Following the meeting, Cr Tachos said she had been on the receiving end of abuse and death threats.
She said she has been inundated with calls and messages of abuse, and feels worried for her safety.
“I’ve had to divert my phone so I don’t receive anymore messages. I’m in a state of fear at the moment and I have never experienced anything like this before,” she said.
“Whether the threats are real or not, you feel unsettled. I’m really concerned about my safety.
“I put through what I thought was a very fair and even balanced condemnation of racism, Islamophobia, anti-semitism, and anything that is extreme. I was certainly not expecting this level of hatred towards me.
“I have learnt to accept as a public person I will receive my fair share of support and criticisms for positions – however there is no place for death threats that have made me feel fearful and concerned. I’ve had to limit my movements as I have also been stalked and filmed in the public realm – matters of which I have discussed with the police and other agencies.“
Cr Tachos explained in the meeting why local government councillors were voting on an issue that was playing out in the Middle East.
“Many have asked me, ‘why bring this into the local council chamber, it’s a complex international conflict, it’s not relevant to your role?’,” she said.
“It is relevant when my constituents who voted for their voices to be represented in the chamber express complete despair and deep unfathomable pain for the immense loss of life, the displacement and the reality that their families and loved ones face daily when they witness the images of war and horror.”
Brimbank council director people, partnerships and performance, Georgie Hill condemned abuse of any form.
“At the February 20 council meeting a motion with the heading Ceasefire in Gaza was tabled and after a period of debate was carried by council,” she said.
“At the same meeting a petition was received from some 3,408 petitioners which also called for a ceasefire in Gaza and this was referred to the chief executive officer for consideration and response.
“Following the council meeting, and as a result of the ceasefire in Gaza discussions, several councillors have reported being harassed or receiving threats from the public. Support is being provided to the individuals involved.
“We take safety and wellbeing of councillors and staff very seriously. Threats of violence, abuse or hate speech have no place in our city. Those found or suspected to be engaging in such activities will be referred to Victoria Police. “
