An Australian publisher has scrapped a children's book due to comments made by the book's illustrator regarding the Bondi beach shooting, which the publisher says violates its policy against antisemitism. The decision has prompted several prominent Australian writers to sever ties with The University of Queensland Press (UQP) and has ignited allegations of political censorship.
Thousands of copies of 'Bila, A River Cycle', an Indigenous children's book written by poet Jazz Money and illustrated by Matt Chun, had already been printed. Chun's essay posted on his Substack newsletter critiqued public responses to the shooting that killed fifteen individuals at a Jewish festival on December 14.
In his essay, Chun accused the 'Australian left' of attempting to avoid accusations of antisemitism in the wake of the incident and criticized media narratives surrounding it. His comments also included critiques of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the victims of the shooting, for his support of Israel's military actions.
The University of Queensland condemned Chun's comments as 'abhorrent and hateful to the innocent victims' and stated they could not condone or overlook them. They expressed regret regarding the impact this decision has on Jazz Money, who they respect greatly.
While copies of the book remain in storage, UQP is considering 'recycling options'. Police in New South Wales confirmed they are investigating the situation related to Chun's post. Chun later stated that the university hadn't provided specifics on the alleged violations nor mentioned how his political writings went against their policies.
Jazz Money announced that her relationship with UQP was 'now over' and emphasized the decision sets a precedent for potential censorship in sensitive works. Since UQP’s controversial decision, there has been a notable backlash, with several writers announcing their intent to boycott the publisher.
Thousands of copies of 'Bila, A River Cycle', an Indigenous children's book written by poet Jazz Money and illustrated by Matt Chun, had already been printed. Chun's essay posted on his Substack newsletter critiqued public responses to the shooting that killed fifteen individuals at a Jewish festival on December 14.
In his essay, Chun accused the 'Australian left' of attempting to avoid accusations of antisemitism in the wake of the incident and criticized media narratives surrounding it. His comments also included critiques of Rabbi Eli Schlanger, one of the victims of the shooting, for his support of Israel's military actions.
The University of Queensland condemned Chun's comments as 'abhorrent and hateful to the innocent victims' and stated they could not condone or overlook them. They expressed regret regarding the impact this decision has on Jazz Money, who they respect greatly.
While copies of the book remain in storage, UQP is considering 'recycling options'. Police in New South Wales confirmed they are investigating the situation related to Chun's post. Chun later stated that the university hadn't provided specifics on the alleged violations nor mentioned how his political writings went against their policies.
Jazz Money announced that her relationship with UQP was 'now over' and emphasized the decision sets a precedent for potential censorship in sensitive works. Since UQP’s controversial decision, there has been a notable backlash, with several writers announcing their intent to boycott the publisher.
