A leading Jewish activist believes the ground-breaking prosecution of three anti-Islam protesters for religious vilification will only breathe life into their far-right movements.
Avi Yemini has spoken out over the cases of leading white nationalist figures Blair Cottrell, Chris Shortis and Neil Erikson, who were convicted of inciting serious contempt, revulsion and ridicule of Muslim people.
The trio caused uproar after beheading a dummy during a protest opposing plans for a mosque to be built in Bendigo, Victoria.
Jewish Activist Avi Yemini has spoken out over the cases of three leading white nationalist figures who were convicted of inciting serious contempt and ridiculing Muslim people
Australia First candidate Chris Shortis (pictured) alongside two other men caused uproar after beheading a dummy during a protest opposing plans for a mosque to be built in Bendigo, Victoria
They became the first people to be convicted Victoria’s Racial and Religious Tolerance Act since its introduction in 2001, The Australian reported.
But Mr Yemini has slammed the decision to take the men to court, believing the result will only increase support for such movements.
‘Instead of debating the issues with these people, we are just trying to shut them down, we are trying to lock them up or take them to court,’ Mr Yemini said.
‘It is so stupid. The fact they went through the courts has just gained them so much more support.’
The men had previously taken to Facebook to share hateful material before the content was removed but the former Israeli Army Officer believes taking away their free speech will only worsen the problem as they go ‘underground.’
‘That is the danger; not when Blair has a microphone or is saying it on his Facebook page. There is a danger in shutting down free speech and we are at the beginning of it. The only way to combat the alt-right in Australia is to let them have their say.’
The three men, including Blair Cottrell (left) and Neil Erikson (right) had previously taken to Facebook to share hateful material before the content was removed but the former Israeli Army Officer believes taking away their free speech will only worsen the problem as they go ‘underground.’
Mr Yemini has slammed the decision to take the men to court, believing the result will only increase support for such movements
And his fear the case could be used as a catalyst was vindicated as the three men received strong support in court from fellow alt-right leading figures including Australia First Party chairman Jim Saleam.
Despite Reclaim Australia founder Catherine Brennan’s normally distant approach, she contacted the men personally on the day of their conviction to reveal her concern.
The convictions will not deter the political activities of the three accused with Australia First candidate Mr Shortis still able to run for Senate.
The three men are expected to appeal the decision.