DJ Haram’s Sydney Biennale Performance Sparks Investigation Over Alleged Racial Hatred
New South Wales Police are currently investigating controversial remarks made by American electronic performer Zubeyda Muzeyyen, professionally known as DJ Haram, during the opening night of the Biennale of Sydney. The performance, held last Friday at the White Bay Power Station, has drawn scrutiny for comments alleged to breach racial hate laws.
Ms Muzeyyen’s set reportedly included calls to “oppose the Zio-Australian-Epstein empire,” followed by a crowd chant of “long live the resistance” and “glory to all of our martyrs.” Earlier in her speech, she also made references to “fascist art-washing” and “the Zionist entity.”
These statements have prompted a formal referral to NSW Police by the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. The organisation expressed concerns that the remarks could contravene both NSW incitement to racial hatred laws and the Commonwealth offence of advocating for terrorism.
David Ossip, president of the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, stated in a letter that the phrase “Zio-Australian-Epstein empire” was “capable of inciting hatred, serious contempt or severe ridicule” towards Jewish Australians. He further elaborated that the statement appeared to promote a conspiratorial narrative, suggesting a malign influence by Jewish Australians. Mr Ossip noted that the inclusion of Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted child abuser, compounded this insinuation by implicitly associating Jewish Australians with criminality and abuse.
High Bar for Hate Speech
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed that the comments are under thorough investigation. “We’ll review what was said, the context of what was said and line that up against the legislation to determine whether any offences were committed,” he told ABC Radio Sydney.
Commissioner Lanyon emphasised the significant legal threshold for defining hate speech. “It’s important to know that hate crimes, hate speech, has a high bar. There’s a reason for that high bar. Obviously free speech is something we value in this country,” he explained. “We need to make sure an offence has been committed. If so, we’ll take action.”
Biennale’s Response and Zero-Tolerance Stance
In response to the controversy, the Biennale of Sydney issued a statement confirming it is conducting a review into the “unannounced” statements made by DJ Haram. The organisation pledged its full cooperation with any inquiries from NSW Police.
The Biennale asserted its unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy for antisemitism, Islamophobia, racism, or any form of hate speech. The statement clarified that the Biennale did not commission, approve, or have prior knowledge of the remarks made by DJ Haram. It stressed that the views expressed by the artist were entirely her own and do not reflect the opinions of the Biennale of Sydney, its Board, or its government and corporate partners.
Condemnation and Withdrawal of Sponsorship
The remarks have also drawn sharp criticism from NSW Arts Minister John Graham, who described them as “inflammatory and wrong” and suggested they could make attendees feel unwelcome. “These comments are inflammatory and wrong,” he stated. “The Biennale needs to publicly spell out how it will make Jewish audiences feel welcome after these comments.”
Following the DJ’s performance, accounting giant PwC announced its decision to withdraw its association with the Biennale of Sydney festival. In a statement, PwC explained that its partnership was intended to support an inclusive and welcoming arts experience for everyone.
“Following comments made by a performer at the opening night event, we no longer have confidence that the festival can meet our expectations,” the company declared. “We condemn the comments made and reject antisemitism and all forms of hate.” This decision will result in the removal of all PwC logos and branding from event materials.
Furthermore, an event scheduled for Thursday as part of the Biennale has been cancelled.
On Monday, NSW Premier Chris Minns reiterated the expectation that cultural and arts institutions receiving taxpayer funds should represent all members of the community and not serve as “a platform for hate.”
The ABC has reportedly contacted Ms Muzeyyen and her booking agent for a response to the allegations.
