Listening with care: bearing witness after Bondi
With heads bowed after the Bondi terror attack, the impulse to respond is strong. But the most crucial work in the days that follow is not grand statements or sensational headlines; it is listening—really listening—to the Jewish community, and to those who hold the memories and the fears that such an event reopens. This is a delicate art: to acknowledge horror without overshadowing the voices of survivors, families, and neighbors who navigate grief while insisting on a future built on safety and dignity.
Why listening matters in times of terror
Vigils and condemnations are visible acts of solidarity, but the quieter, ongoing conversation matters just as much. When communities are asked to “explain” tragedy or to show resilience in the face of the unthinkable, they are often asked to carry a heavier burden while others seek explanations or safe distance. Listening means resisting the urge to frame the event as a hypothesis to be solved and instead validating the lived experiences of those who are most affected. It means acknowledging fear, anger, and grief as legitimate responses, not as inconvenient residues to be managed.
What constructive listening looks like
Constructive listening involves several practical steps that organizations and individuals can adopt right away:
- Center affected voices: Elevate the perspectives of Jewish leaders, survivors, and community members in discussions, reporting, and memorials.
- Acknowledgement before analysis: Begin conversations with empathy and a clear statement of solidarity, then offer space for safe expression.
- Resist sensationalism: Avoid framing the event as a crisis for journalism alone; treat it as a human tragedy that requires accountability and healing.
- Provide tangible support: Share resources for mental health, security, and community programs that help families and institutions rebuild a sense of safety.
- Foster inclusive dialogue: Invite diverse voices within the Jewish community and allied groups to share how best to respond and remember.
Breathing room for memory and healing
Memory is not a burden to be shouldered alone; it is a shared responsibility that can guide future actions. For Jewish communities, memory is a source of strength and vigilance—reminding us to protect sacred spaces, educate across generations, and challenge antisemitism in all its forms. The healing process is neither quick nor linear; it unfolds through small acts of care, from checking in on neighbors to publicly opposing hate and violence.
Responsible reporting: how journalists can help
Reporters play a critical role in shaping how a community processes tragedy. Responsible journalism should:
- Prioritize accuracy over speed, verifying facts before publication.
- Center affected voices and avoid sensational framing that can retraumatize readers.
- Offer clear guidance on resources and avenues for support.
- Reflect on the impact of language and imagery, especially when covering sensitive topics such as faith, trauma, and security.
Moving from mourning to action
In the wake of tragedy, solidarity must translate into sustained action. Communities can channel grief into programs that promote mutual aid, education, and the protection of civil rights for all. The Bondi incident is a reminder that safety is a shared obligation—protecting one faith is a step toward protecting all. Listening to the Jewish community, and acting on what we hear, is the first responsible step toward healing and resilience.
