Adelaide Writers’ Week Cancels Palestinian Author

Australia’s Adelaide Festival faces turmoil after disinviting prominent Australian-Palestinian writer Dr. Randa Abdel-Fattah, a decision she labeled as “anti-Palestinian racism.” The festival’s board cited “sensitivities” following a violent attack at a Jewish festival, though they denied any connection to Abdel-Fattah. Her exclusion led to a mass withdrawal of over 180 authors, prompting board member resignations and the cancellation of Writers’ Week. The controversy has reignited debates on freedom of expression and artistic censorship in Australia.