Major Corporate Sponsor Withdraws from Sydney Biennale, Citing Alleged Hate Speech
PwC withdrew as a “strategic partner” of the Sydney Biennale’s 25th edition after allegations of antisemitic hate speech connected to a performance at the event’s opening night party at White Bay Power Station. The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies filed a police complaint Tuesday regarding comments allegedly made by US electronic music producer Zubeyda Muzeyyen, who performs as DJ Haram, including references to a “Zio-Australian-Epstein empire,” tributes to “martyrs,” and the phrase “long live the resistance.” Jewish Board of Deputies president David Ossip argued the remarks could breach the NSW Crimes Act provisions on inciting hatred, while NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said police would review the allegations and noted the high legal threshold for hate-speech offenses. Biennale organizers said they were disappointed by PwC’s decision, reiterated a commitment to an inclusive environment, and stated they would cooperate fully with any police investigation.
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This story was covered in Museum Shakeups, Restitution Fights, and Sponsor Fallout