Literary Festival Inclusion Sparks Heated Community Debate
The Newcastle Herald's recent editorial addressing the inclusion of author Randa Abdel-Fattah in this year's Newcastle Writers Festival has generated significant community discussion through letters to the editor. The controversy stems from Liberal MLC Aileen MacDonald describing Dr Abdel-Fattah in NSW Parliament as an "anti-Semitic propagandist," with NSW Arts Minister John Graham responding to these claims.
Distinguishing Criticism from Prejudice
Several correspondents have emphasised the importance of distinguishing between anti-Semitism and criticism of Israeli government policies. Glen Wilson from Cardiff argues that accusations against Dr Abdel-Fattah generally stem from her "sharp, often inflammatory rhetoric against Israel and Zionism" rather than prejudice against Jewish people.
The author maintains a distinguished academic record and has made significant contributions to literature and anti-racism work. Dr Abdel-Fattah herself has described attempts to label her as anti-Semitic as "despicable" acts of censorship and anti-Palestinian racism, stating that "the only Palestinians they will tolerate are silent and invisible ones."
Institutional Support and Definition Concerns
The Jewish Council of Australia has issued a statement supporting Dr Abdel-Fattah, rejecting claims that criticism of Israel's conduct constitutes anti-Semitism. This support comes amid growing concerns about what letter writers describe as "the politicisation of the label of anti-Semitism to attack those who criticise Israel's actions."
Mark Drew from New Lambton addresses the broader implications of this controversy, particularly regarding the Prime Minister's undertaking to accept all recommendations of the Special Envoy's Plan to Combat Anti-Semitism following the Bondi attack. "The envoy recommends the broad adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance's definition of anti-Semitism, which is highly contested and incomplete," Drew notes.
Defining Terms and Protecting Speech
Drew further explains that while anti-Semitism constitutes "hostility and prejudice directed against Jewish people," anti-Zionism encompasses a spectrum ranging from seeking Israel's abolition to opposing specific government policies. Most Australians accept that abolition of Israel is neither reasonable nor feasible given today's reality, with both major political parties supporting a two-state solution.
The correspondent argues that claims of anti-Semitism can sometimes be used to deflect legitimate criticism of Israel's policies. "It is important that the government prescribe clear, concise definitions of anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism before considering broad-reaching recommendations," Drew writes, emphasising the need to protect both the Jewish community from genuine prejudice and Australia's institutions and free speech traditions.
Additional Community Concerns
The letters section also includes several unrelated community matters:
- Peter Newey from Waratah discusses voluntary assisted dying from a Christian perspective, acknowledging personal choice while expressing theological concerns
- Christine Everingham suggests redirecting funds from the Ocean Baths redevelopment to maintain inland swimming pools
- Keith Parsons questions whether councillor Declan Clausen properly consulted about municipal pool funding issues
- Colin Rowlatt criticises Premier Minns for commenting on Newcastle affairs
- Richard Ryan praises dental services at Wyong Dental Clinic
- Steve Barnett proposes a "none of the above" option on ballot papers
The Newcastle Herald continues to provide a platform for community discussion through its letters section, inviting correspondence to letters@newcastleherald.com.au or via text to 0427 154 176, with requests for disclosure of political affiliations and editing rights reserved.
