Hayne’s apology to the Jewish community

Rugby league superstar Jarryd Hayne apologised to the Jewish community for claiming that ‘Jews killed Jesus’ on Twitter last week.

Hayne told his 120,000 Twitter followers that “Jesus wanted to help people but was killed by his own people” and after some discussion that “the Jews were the people who took him to the Romans and forced them to give the order because they couldn’t”.

After The Australian Jewish News exclusively revealed the tweets last week Hayne was condemned by community leaders, deleted the tweets and then yesterday apologised.

“I sincerely apologise for my tweets on July 1. I have come to understand how my words were hurtful to the Jewish community and this was not my intention. I immediately took the tweets down once I realised my words were incorrect,” Hayne said.

“I have and will always accept people of all faiths. I encourage my fans around the world to do the same.”

B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission’s Dvir Abramovich welcomed the apology and said the matter is now closed.

“Jarryd Hayne did the right thing by reaching out directly to the Jewish community. I very much welcome his heartfelt apology and pleased that he has disassociated himself from his hurtful remarks,” Abramovich said.

“We take him at his word that he genuinely regrets his unacceptable tweets and that he recognises that his offensive comments were wrong.

“Mr Hayne has made it clear that he condemns any form of racism and bigotry and it is gratifying that he has called on his fans to follow his lead and become advocates for the values of tolerance, diversity and respect for people of all faiths. It takes a champion to admit he made a mistake and I appreciate Jarryd’s remorse.

“As a role model for many, this was certainly an important step. As far as I am concerned, the matter is closed.”