To the Curtin University executive,
We the undersigned stand in opposition to the measures being taken at Curtin University to oppose pro-Palestine organising. We understand these measures as efforts to intimidate students and limit free speech on campus.
Firstly, we oppose the banning of the phrase “from the river to the sea.” We reject the claim that this phrase is “offensive.” Rather, this is a slogan that supporters of Palestine have used for decades to call for equal rights for all people, of all religions who live between the Jordan River and the Mediterranean Sea (or historic Palestine).
Secondly, we firmly reject the notion that pro-Palestine students should be banned from postering or handing out leaflets on university property. We see this, and the argument that leafleting students about pro-Palestinian events is “harrassment,” as a thinly veiled effort to close down political organising. We find the timing of these declarations deeply suspicious given the activism that has taken place, primarily at last semester’s Palestine encampment criticising the University’s ties to various arms companies.
Finally, we find the targeting of individual activists deeply disturbing. The email communication with prominent pro-Palestine student activists Ella Marchionda and Erin Russell which alerts them to the fact that they are “on notice,” is very concerning and leads us to believe the university is trying to lay the basis for discipline of such activists.
Curtin can not claim to support freedom of speech while taking such repressive actions.
Curtin claims to oppose the violation of humanitarian law. In its statement after the Gaza encampment, Curtin wrote that it “does not condone contravention of international humanitarian law and calls for the protection of civilians in all conflicts”.
It also claims the moral highground as a space for discussion and debate, stating “Curtin values academic freedom, freedom of speech and respectful debate. We believe that all universities should be a sanctuary for freedom and democracy.” It also states that “Curtin is a proud member of Scholars at Risk, an international network of higher education institutions dedicated to protecting scholars and promoting academic freedom around the world.” Except, it seems, when such discussion leads to direct criticism of the university.
We demand that Curtin revoke the ban on the phrase “from the river to the sea”, allow students to put up posters, hand out leaflets, and organise other forms of political activism on campus (including that which is critical of the university) and cease its intimidation of pro-Palestine student activists.