UPDATE: In a shocking move, the Adelaide Writer’s Week has sparked outrage after canceling the participation of pro-Palestine author Randa Abdel-Fattah, leading prominent historian Emeritus Professor Henry Reynolds to withdraw from the festival. Reynolds, a key figure in the landmark Mabo High Court case, labeled the festival’s decision as “foolish” and a capitulation to what he described as “Zionist pressure.”
The festival board’s decision comes in the wake of heightened tensions following the tragic mass shooting at Bondi on December 14, 2023, which left 15 people dead. In a statement, the board cited “national grief” and “community tensions” as reasons for removing Abdel-Fattah from the lineup, stating that it would not be “culturally sensitive” to include her due to her past statements regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Reynolds, who was scheduled to appear alongside renowned Indigenous filmmaker Rachel Perkins, expressed his dismay at the festival’s actions, stating, “It’s such a foolish thing to invite someone then un-invite them—no matter what.” He emphasized the importance of artistic freedom and engagement, especially in times of crisis.
Adding to the controversy, nearly 100 speakers, including celebrated authors like Trent Dalton and Helen Garner, have also withdrawn from the event, signaling a growing discontent within the literary community. Reynolds has sent a letter to the festival’s board, which includes former immigration minister Amanda Vanstone, demanding clarity on the decision to disinvite Abdel-Fattah. In the letter, he questioned the board’s definition of “culturally sensitive” and whether it was influenced solely by the recent tragedy in Bondi.
Abdel-Fattah, an outspoken critic of Israeli government actions, has faced backlash from conservative groups for her views. The festival’s board clarified that while they found her statements unacceptable, they did not imply any connection between her writings and the Bondi incident. The board has yet to specify which statements were deemed inflammatory.
This incident reflects a broader trend of cultural sensitivity clashes in public discourse, particularly regarding the Palestinian cause. It raises critical questions about artistic freedom and the consequences of public opinion in the wake of national tragedies.
As the situation develops, observers will be watching closely to see how the literary community responds and what implications this will have for future festivals. The controversy surrounding Abdel-Fattah’s removal is likely to resonate well beyond Adelaide, as international guests such as Zadie Smith and journalist M Gessen have also withdrawn from the event.
Authorities in the arts community are urged to engage in open dialogue about these pressing issues, as the fallout from this incident continues to unfold. The Adelaide Writer’s Week is scheduled for March 2024, and with the growing unrest among its speakers, the festival’s future remains uncertain.
