Sydney Woman Criticized for Calling Westfield's Reflection Day for Stabbing Victims 'Woke'

A Sydney woman, Kobie Thatcher, has faced significant backlash on social media for describing Westfield Bondi Junction's community reflection day to commemorate the six victims killed in a recent stabbing attack as "woke virtue signalling." The shopping center organized the event to honor those who lost their lives in the tragic incident, including Yixuan Cheng, a Chinese student, Ashlee Good, Dawn Singleton, Jade Young, Pikria Darchia, and security guard Faraz Tahir, a refugee.

The attacker, identified as 40-year-old Joel Cauchi from Queensland, was shot by police inspector Amy Scott, who has been praised for her bravery. Cauchi was known to have mental health issues. The victims' families have been offered support, and the community has expressed solidarity and grief over the senseless act of violence.

Thatcher argued that those affected by the tragedy had already had enough time to mourn and that businesses should be allowed to reopen, stating that people's bills and rent payments don't stop because of a tragedy. Her comments were met with widespread condemnation on social media, with many users calling her remarks "disgusting" and "hateful."

Why this matters: The incident at Westfield Bondi Junction has deeply impacted the local community, and the reflection day serves as an important opportunity for collective mourning and healing. The public outcry against Thatcher's comments highlights the importance of empathy and respect in the face of tragedy, and the need for unity in times of crisis.

Former Sydney mayor Lucy Turnbull and other commentators defended the day of reflection as a respectful and empathetic response to the tragedy. The Scentre Group, which runs Westfield, announced that retailers would not have to pay rent from April 13 to April 19, and mental health counseling and support services would be available. A candlelight vigil is also planned at nearby Bondi Beach to honor the victims. "The day of reflection was aimed at helping people feel comfortable returning to the site," a Scentre Group spokesperson said.

Key Takeaways

• Sydney woman Kobie Thatcher criticized Westfield's community reflection day as "woke virtue signalling".
• The event honored 6 victims killed in a recent stabbing attack at Westfield Bondi Junction.
• Thatcher's comments faced widespread backlash, with many calling them "disgusting" and "hateful".
• The reflection day was seen as an important opportunity for collective mourning and healing.
• Westfield offered rent relief and mental health support to help the community return to the site.