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The Adelaide Festival is facing a growing boycott after organizers removed Palestinian-Australian author Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah from the Adelaide Writers’ Week program. The decision, made in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, has sparked widespread condemnation from writers, journalists, and arts organizations, who decry it as an act of censorship and discrimination. As of Friday,numerous participants have withdrawn from the festival in protest,and further withdrawals are anticipated.
Concerns Over “Cultural Sensitivity”
The Adelaide Festival Board stated that its decision was based on concerns about “cultural sensitivity” following the October 14th Bondi Junction shopping center attack [1]. While the board emphasized that Abdel-Fattah and her work were not connected to the tragedy, they cited “her past statements” as the reason for removing her from the lineup. The festival board released a statement saying it “would not be culturally sensitive to continue to program her at this unprecedented time so soon after Bondi” [2].
A History of Controversy
Abdel-Fattah, a Macquarie University academic, has previously faced criticism for her views on Israel, including allegations that Zionists have “no claim or right to cultural safety.” [2] These statements have drawn condemnation from some Coalition members, Jewish organizations, and media outlets.
Widespread Boycott and Condemnation
The decision to remove Abdel-Fattah has triggered a wave of protests within the literary community. Notable figures who have withdrawn from the festival include:
- Helen Garner
- Chloe Hooper
- Sarah Krasnostein
- Miles Franklin winner Michelle de Kretser
- Jane Caro
- Peter FitzSimons
- Hannah Ferguson
- Peter Greste
- Jonathan Green
- Prof Chelsea Watego
- Amy Remeikis
Authors Bri Lee and Madeleine Gray have stated they will not participate unless Abdel-Fattah is reinstated. Hannah Kent, author of Burial Rites, described the decision as a “gross act of discrimination and censorship.” [3] The Australia Institute has also withdrawn its sponsorship, citing the festivalS departure from its commitment to “bravery, freedom of expression and the exchange of ideas.” [3]
Differing Perspectives
Former NSW Premier and federal foreign affairs minister Bob Carr, while a critic of Israel’s actions in Gaza, publicly supported the festival board’s decision. He argued that some of abdel-Fattah’s previous statements were counterproductive to the Palestinian cause and that, given the recent events in Bondi, the board’s decision was reasonable. [4]
Abdel-Fattah’s Response
Abdel-fattah herself has strongly condemned the decision, calling it an “obscene attempt to associate me wiht an atrocity” and an example of “egregious and unabashed anti-Palestinian” views. [4] She has called for the festival to apologize, retract its statement, and reinstate her invitation. she also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of solidarity from the writing community.
Similar Incidents
This is not the first time Abdel-Fattah has faced such a situation. Last year, she was among over 50 writers who withdrew from the Bendigo Writers’ Festival following the implementation of a code of conduct perceived as restrictive. [4]
Date: 2026/01/09 02:46:11
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