Sydney Biennale Sparks Backlash After DJ Haram Makes Antisemitic Claims During Performance
DJ Haram Sparks Controversy at Sydney Biennale
The opening night of the Sydney Biennale turned controversial after US-based artist Zubeyda Muzeyyen, also known as DJ Haram, made inflammatory remarks during her set at the White Bay Power Station.
During the performance, DJ Haram claimed that a “Zio-Australian-Epstein empire” was responsible for silencing dissenters. Critics argue that the statement links Israel to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, perpetuating harmful antisemitic tropes.
Premier Chris Minns Responds
The Premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, addressed the controversy by ruling out any cuts to funding for the Biennale. Minns emphasized the importance of artistic freedom while acknowledging the sensitivity of the remarks.
He stated that while the language used by the artist was “horrid,” it did not justify penalizing the festival or its broader artistic mission.
Jewish Groups Condemn Remarks
Jewish organizations and community leaders condemned the performance, describing the rhetoric as deeply offensive and rooted in longstanding antisemitic stereotypes.
The groups highlighted concerns that linking Israel to a convicted sex offender not only spreads misinformation but also fuels prejudice and hate speech in public spaces.
Context of the Performance
DJ Haram’s set was explicitly political, incorporating themes of Palestinian resistance and criticism of global powers. Highlights included:
- References to “martyrs” and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
- Critiques of what she called “global complicity” in the situation.
- Chanting the slogan “from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free”, which has been widely criticized as provocative and divisive.
The performance aimed to challenge audiences and raise awareness about geopolitical issues but has drawn sharp backlash for antisemitic overtones.
Balancing Artistic Freedom and Responsibility
The incident raises ongoing debates about freedom of expression in the arts versus responsibility to avoid hate speech:
- Supporters argue that art should challenge political and social norms, even controversially.
- Critics contend that targeting specific ethnic or religious groups crosses a line and contributes to harmful discrimination.
The controversy illustrates the fine line between political expression and offensive, potentially dangerous rhetoric in public cultural events.
- DJ Haram’s remarks at the Sydney Biennale have been widely condemned for antisemitic content.
- Premier Chris Minns defended continued government funding for the festival, citing artistic freedom.
- The performance combined political messaging about Palestine with provocative rhetoric linking Israel to Jeffrey Epstein.
- The incident highlights the tension between supporting creative expression and preventing hate speech.
