Aleph Melbourne have praised the work of Anton Hermann, a leader in Melbourne’s Jewish community, in fostering inclusion and acceptance of LGBTIQ+ people. Hermann was tragically killed in a cycling accident on July 6.
Aleph Melbourne is a social, support and advocacy group for same-sex attracted, trans and gender diverse, and intersex people (and allies) who have a Jewish heritage, living in Melbourne, Australia.
Representatives of Aleph Melbourne said they were “deeply saddened” to hear of Hermann’s passing.
Hermann was Vice President of the Jewish Community Council of Victoria (JCCV). In this capacity Anton was key in formulating the JCCV apology to Aleph Melbourne in April 2019 – an apology in response to the JCCV voting to reject Aleph’s membership to the JCCV 20 years earlier, in May 1999.
The community leader is remembered for being proactive in listening to the concerns of Aleph (including meeting with Aleph representatives Michael Barnett and Shaun Miller) and also reviewing the minutes of the JCCV meeting from May 1999 at which Aleph’s membership to the JCCV was rejected.
“Anton came to understand the hateful and hurtful language of some delegates at the JCCV meeting of 20 years ago, and the long term negative impact this had on many LGBTIQ people in the Jewish community and also on their allies.
“With conviction, compassion and consensus, Anton ensured that the JCCV apology was genuine, meaningful and unconditional.
“This is just one of many actions of Anton’s that had a positive and uplifting social impact in relation to the Jewish community, the LGBTIQ community, and the broader community.” Aleph Melbourne said in a statement.
“Anton’s untimely death is devastating to all who knew him and who were helped by him. We extend our sincere condolences to his family. Aleph will always remember his values and value his memory.”
OIP Staff
