Charles Darwin University stands above anti-Semitic behaviour

I felt – and still feel – disgusted at the rank and graphic behaviour and spite directed at Jewish students and staff by pro-Palestinian activists at universities in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra. What happened during a tailored conference at QUT in more recent times, should have been called out and canned before the event.

Passive response and what appeared to be an attempt by the administrators of impacted universities to avoid adjudicating on the issue by playing ostrich or responding with platitudes about academic expression and free speech did not cut the mustard. 

Indeed, several university campuses became long-term headquarters taken over – in part anyway – by agitators.

The lassitude shown by Vice Chancellors,  Chancellors and others, did not lead to protest dissipation. Rather, meek responses only encouraged many protesters to a higher level of inflamed vitriol.

Our University Leadership Shows the Way

The example of leadership set by the VC of Charles Darwin University on issues of diversity, Dr Scott Bowman, is one that VCs elsewhere should emulate. CDU is a peaceful place and more cosmopolitan than most, but harmony, oneness, and unity prevail. Dr. Bowman’s strong and supportive leadership and focus stand as a magnificent example to university leaders everywhere.

We need more even-handed Vice Chancellors like Scott Bowman at Charles Darwin University. The Israeli-Palestinian fracas taking place down south did not impact the CDU. All power to VCs who steer a steady course for their universities, focusing on important rather than distorting issues.

Our university is setting an example in this matter that other institutions might well emulate.