The University of Melbourne, like many other Australian universities, has been a stomping ground for some vile terror supporters. But from what I can see, the University has tried to act against them.
Recently, the university administration issued notices of alleged misconduct against 19 anti-Israel students over their “protest” actions, which including occupying buildings.
And now the university has struck back again against those who continue to flout the rules.
Meanwhile on Friday, UniMelb for Palestine activists set up a table outside the Royal Exhibition Building – where University of Melbourne graduations were taking place – to give out keffiyehs to students.
Some students then wore the keffiyehs over their graduation robes during the ceremony, despite university policy requiring them to wear personal clothing under their academic gowns.
During the graduation ceremony, pro-Palestine supporters – including UniMelb for Palestine organiser Dana Alshaer – either waved Palestinian flags, raised their fists or yelled “free Palestine” when they were called on stage.
But as a consequence of their actions, they missed the opportunity to have their official stage photo taken and were excluded from the official videography of the event.
“The University has terms and conditions for attendance at ceremonies which have been communicated to those attending,” a University of Melbourne spokesman said.
“These state that graduates who take prohibited items on stage will not have their official on stage photograph taken nor be part of the official videography of the event.
“If a graduate does not follow the protocols outlined in the terms and conditions while crossing the stage to receive their testamur, the videographer will pan away during any unscheduled activity to ensure minimal disruption of proceedings.”
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“Graduation ceremonies are a significant milestone that celebrate students’ academic achievements,” the University of Melbourne spokesman said.
“As at all of our events, the University of Melbourne prioritises a safe, secure and enjoyable environment that celebrates academic achievement.”
Boo to the hoo. Dana et al certainly qualify for a degree in FAFO.
And notice her claim that her missing out “on screen time” because she did not follow the clear rules communicated to all students is “censorship and racism.” Why should she and others be allowed to ruin the graduation ceremony for others, especially Jewish students? And how rich for those who keep claiming that anti-Zionism is not antisemitism to also claim this is racism.
I hope more universities – not just in Australia but also elsewhere in the world – follow suit and show these hateful fools that they are not above the rules.
I also hope this message carries through to their job seeking phase.
