87-year-old Palestinian artist Samia Halaby is the most recent victim of the intense backlash resulting from support for the pro-Palestinian cause. Halaby had been preparing an art show for Indiana University’s art museum before receiving a note from the museum’s director that the show was canceled, according to The New York Times.
Halaby had a long history with Indiana University, both earning her master’s degree and teaching at the school, according to the NYT. She has received countless praise for her art work and is a prominent activist . She has used her art and position to advocate for the Palestinian people, and her cancellation came following “concern” for her posts on social media calling out Israel for their genocidal behavior and supporting Palestinian causes. Indiana University also suspended a tenured professor who publicly supported Palestinian solidarity.
Both decisions came following a letter from Indiana Representative Jim Banks that said the university “could lose federal funding if administrators condoned antisemitism on campus,” according to the NYT. Support for the Palestinian people and advocating against the genocide being committed by the Israeli government is being labeled as anti-semitism. A proper reason is then created which can dismiss and cancel those who disagree and support the freedom of the Palestinian people. It appears those at Indiana University have chosen money over morality; ignoring one’s right to freedom of speech and expression to ensure they get that sweet donor money.
Halaby has not remained silent in the wake of her canceling, saying, “It is clearly my freedom of expression that is under question here,” according to the NYT. Art is an expression of the self, a way to share your feelings and tell a story in a way that is unique to every individual. Halaby’s choice to express herself and use her talent to advocate for others has been denied on the grounds of antisemitism and that is reprehensible.
Similar to Halaby’s situation, in October 2023, Roy Baizan and Odalys Burgoa, both artists, faced an issue of suppression with their artwork, according to the NYT. The two were commissioned by a Manhattan Museum to create a piece in celebration of the Day of the Dead. The piece they created contained the Palestinian flag, and they were asked to remove it. After refusing, citing the theme of political liberation which is central to the artwork and their dedication to honor past and current activists, the museum canceled their commision. This case of suppression is more blatant and clear evidence of the fear many organizations have towards displaying pro-Palestinian messages.
Everyday that passes, more and more innocent people are dying at the hands of the Israeli government, just as they have been for over 50 years. While just individuals, it takes activists like Halaby, Baizan and Burgoa, who have the talent and passion to inspire, to succeed in a liberation movement.
Harvie Marcotti can be contacted at
hmarcotti@kscequinox.com
