The venerable Adelaide Writers Week, Australia’s largest ‘free’ literary festival, has cancelled Randa Abdel-Fattah, author, sociologist and supporter of the Palestinian people. What’s the scam?
The scam is that another beacon of free speech and promoter of literature, headed by Louise Adler, has caved in to Israel pressure and cancelled Randi Abdel-Fattah‘s scheduled appearance.
“Whilst we do not suggest in any way that Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah’s or her writings have any connection with the tragedy at Bondi,” said a board statement, “Given her past statements, we have formed the view that it would not be culturally sensitive to continue to program her at this unprecedented time so soon after Bondi.”
Within hours, The Australia Institute (TAI), which had several people presenting at the Festival, have withdrawn their participation in protest, stating,
Censoring or cancelling authors is not in the spirit of an open and free exchange of ideas.
Others will no doubt follow, and this Adelaide-based writer will not be attending either. MWM understands Festival Director Louise Adler did not agree with the decision and there was pressure at Board level which oversees Festival budgets.
It is an election year in South Australia. The Board statement says external experts have been appointed but does not say who.
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Kim Wingerei is a businessman turned writer and commentator. He is passionate about free speech, human rights, democracy and the politics of change. Originally from Norway, Kim has lived in Australia for 30 years. Author of ‘Why Democracy is Broken – A Blueprint for Change’.