The Adelaide Writers’ Week (AWW) has been cancelled following a series of resignations, an author’s rescinded invitation, and widespread withdrawals from participating writers. The fallout stems from a decision by the festival board to exclude Palestinian Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the program.
Controversy and Cancellation
Adelaide Festival’s executive director, Julian Hobba, revealed he had long anticipated controversy surrounding AWW would escalate, describing it as a “kind of wildfire” the board might be unable to control. Hobba stated he advised the board against removing Abdel-Fattah’s invitation. His comments came as former board member Tony Berg explained his resignation last year, citing a loss of confidence in AWW’s former director, Louise Adler, and concerns about the event’s direction.
Hobba expressed regret over the decision to rescind Abdel-Fattah’s invitation, stating, “I feel sorry for Dr Abdel-Fattah…that she won’t get to come to Adelaide Writers’ Week and have a discussion with the audience about her novel.” He likened the current situation to the aftermath of a bushfire, suggesting the consequences were beyond prediction.
Board Decision and External Pressure
Hobba clarified that, despite his advice, the board acted within its authority. He also stated that, to his understanding, the decision to exclude Abdel-Fattah was made by the board itself, following assurances provided in writing. When questioned about potential political pressure, Hobba maintained it was “always a board decision” as defined by the Adelaide Festival Corporation Act.
SA Premier Peter Malinauskas publicly supported the decision to cancel Abdel-Fattah’s appearance, stating he had communicated his views to the board as early as September. He also pointed to Tony Berg’s earlier resignation as a factor in the unfolding events.
Previous Concerns and Future Outlook
Berg, in a statement, revealed his resignation predated both the recent terrorist attacks and the decision regarding Abdel-Fattah, stemming from disagreements with Adler’s leadership. He also cited concerns over a 2024 decision to dis-invite New York Times journalist Thomas Friedman, following pressure from a group of academics including Abdel-Fattah. Berg argued for freedom of speech “not on a selective basis.”
Abdel-Fattah has threatened legal action against Premier Malinauskas and rejected what she described as an attempt to equate her call to rescind Friedman’s invitation with her own cancellation. The premier, however, emphasized the importance of allowing diverse viewpoints, stating that supporting Palestinian statehood should not preclude the acceptance of opposing perspectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the cancellation of Adelaide Writers’ Week?
The cancellation followed the Adelaide Festival board’s decision to exclude author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the program, prompting over 180 authors to withdraw in protest and the resignation of the festival’s director, Louise Adler.
Did the Adelaide Festival board face external pressure regarding the decision?
According to Julian Hobba, the executive director of the Adelaide Festival, the decision was made by the board itself, and the Adelaide Festival Corporation Act clarifies that such decisions fall within the board’s authority.
What concerns did former board member Tony Berg raise prior to his resignation?
Tony Berg resigned because he no longer supported the direction of Adelaide Writers’ Week under Louise Adler, and had previously expressed concerns about the dis-invitation of journalist Thomas Friedman in 2024.
As the festival assesses the damage, a “reset” is anticipated, with a renewed focus on the values that have historically defined AWW. It remains to be seen how the festival will rebuild its reputation and attract authors for future events, and whether the current controversy will lead to lasting changes in its governance and programming.
