QUT Issues Apology for Presentation Mocking Conservative Jewish Community

The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has expressed regret for any distress caused by a controversial slideshow that portrayed conservative Jewish individuals as “Dutton’s Jew” during a conference on anti-racism.

During her speech, Schwartz targeted right-wing and conservative supporters of Israel, including what she referred to as “Christian Zionists.”

She displayed a slide depicting a superhero caricature with the initials DJ, representing “Dutton’s Jew,” insinuating that Jews who support Opposition Leader Peter Dutton are inferior and favored by the Coalition leader.

The slide listed various negative characteristics of Australia’s conservative Jewish community in bullet points, such as their desire to “defend Western civilization and Australian culture.”

The session elicited strong reactions from political figures and the Jewish community.

“The content from the Queensland University of Technology was alarming and personally, I have witnessed some incredibly foolish things, but that was one of the most irresponsible acts I have seen in the past 18 months,” stated Labor MP Josh Burns in a comment to The Australian newspaper.

QUT Vice-Chancellor Professor Margaret Sheil has issued an apology.

“Upon seeing the slide, I realize why the presentation has caused significant offense, and I apologize for any harm caused to individuals within and outside the QUT community,” she informed The Epoch Times.

“I will investigate the circumstances surrounding this presentation and take appropriate action.

“Regarding the suitability of speakers on the main program, it is crucial for universities to continue engaging in vibrant discussions and debates on topics of great importance in our time.

“Equally important is that this is done in a manner that is respectful and secure.”

Schwartz Not a QUT Staff Member

A QUT representative mentioned that the National Symposium on Unifying Anti-Racist Research and Action provided an opportunity for “leading anti-racist researchers and practitioners to discuss strategies for addressing systemic racism, both locally and globally.”

“QUT upholds strong policies on academic freedom and freedom of expression, while also maintaining a stance against discrimination and any form of racism. This includes a zero-tolerance policy towards hate speech at any event.”

The university acknowledged that the slide shared by human rights lawyer Schwartz, who is not affiliated with QUT, had raised “significant concerns.”

“QUT staff were not aware of the slide’s content beforehand and do not endorse the message conveyed in it,” the spokesperson clarified.