In a bold move that has stirred controversy, Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah is calling for an apology and accountability after being removed from the lineup of Adelaide Writers' Week. This decision has triggered a wave of authors canceling their participation in solidarity with her.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has publicly supported the festival board’s choice, stating on ABC Radio Adelaide that Abdel-Fattah has "advocated in writing explicitly against the cultural safety of those who believe in Zionism." This remark hints at the complex tensions surrounding the event and the broader implications of her removal.
On Thursday, the Adelaide Festival Board issued a statement clarifying that their decision was not a reflection of Abdel-Fattah's personal connection to any recent violent incidents, like the Bondi attack. Instead, they expressed concerns that allowing her to participate would not be culturally sensitive, especially given her past statements. Abdel-Fattah was slated to discuss her latest novel, "Discipline," at the festival, which is set to commence on February 28.
Since the announcement about her exclusion, various authors have stepped back from the event, showcasing their support for Abdel-Fattah. The official Writers' Week website updated its line-up page to indicate that they had temporarily removed the list of participants while reevaluating the program in light of these withdrawals.
Speaking on ABC Radio National, Abdel-Fattah described the decision to cut her from the festival as "obscene" and indicative of the prevalent racism that institutions often normalize. She expressed disbelief that she has to publicly distance herself from the Bondi terrorist attack, asserting, "It's just an extremely racist and obscene attempt to associate me with an atrocity."
Abdel-Fattah further articulated her frustration, questioning when Palestinians might be allowed to occupy public spaces without being viewed as threats. She lamented that the cancellation reduced her to a mere object of others' fears.
The Premier reiterated his backing of the festival board’s decision, emphasizing the significance of their actions within the context of recent racially motivated terrorist attacks in Australia. He acknowledged the importance of writers' festivals as platforms for diverse ideas but raised concerns about Abdel-Fattah’s presence following such tragic events.
After learning of her removal via email, Abdel-Fattah felt blindsided, stating she hadn’t received prior communication concerning her remarks. She demanded an apology, the retraction of the board’s statement, and her reinstatement to the festival—calling for accountability for the board's choice.
Authors withdrawing include notable figures such as writer and feminist Jane Caro, who expressed that her decision was rooted in resisting authoritarian impulses that silence dissenting voices. She highlighted the critical role of writers' festivals in fostering debate and expression of differing opinions.
Hannah Kent, another South Australian author, also announced her withdrawal, condemning the board's actions as discriminatory and a form of censorship, pledging to remain absent unless Abdel-Fattah is reinstated. Other authors like Peter Fitzsimons, Evelyn Araluen, Amy McQuire, Peter Greste, and Bernadette Brennan have joined this movement.
Moreover, Writers SA, the leading organization for writers and literature in South Australia, chose to withdraw from the event, arguing that silencing Abdel-Fattah undermines the very essence of literary expression and festival purposes. The Adelaide Festival has yet to provide a comment regarding these unfolding events.
