Palestinian activists cancel Christmas window protest after Myer cancels event
The Victorian Premier was angered by the cancellation of the opening event, accusing the protest group of ‘choosing to politicise Christmas.’
Myer, a retail giant, has decided to cancel its annual Christmas window unveiling in Melbourne due to threats from pro-Palestinian protesters. The protest group, known as Disrupt Wars, initially planned to hold a rally called “Crash the Christmas Windows” on Nov. 17 but later called off the event following Myer’s cancellation.
The Christmas event, held annually in Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall, attracts large crowds of families from across Victoria to enjoy the Christmas Windows display. Despite the cancellation of the unveiling ceremony and associated festivities, the windows will still be decorated, as Myer prioritized public safety.
Prior to the cancellation, Victoria police had urged the activist group to reconsider their plans, but Disrupt Wars continued to encourage their supporters to disrupt the event and make a statement against the ongoing events in Gaza.
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Disrupt Wars aimed to inconvenience those who support capitalism instead of speaking out against the ongoing events in Gaza. Victoria police emphasized the importance of protesting peacefully without impacting the community.
Myer spokesperson justified the cancellation as necessary to ensure the safety of customers and staff, expressing their commitment to providing a safe and positive experience for all visitors.
Despite the cancellation, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the protest group for politicizing Christmas and disrupting a cherished tradition. Melbourne’s Lord Mayor Nick Reece also urged demonstrators to reconsider their actions.
Founded by Russian Jewish immigrant Sidney Myer in the early 20th century, Myer operates 56 stores across Australia.
