The University of Queensland Press (UQP) has cancelled the publication of an Indigenous children's book, 'Bila, A River Cycle', citing illustrator Matt Chun's comments about the Bondi beach shooting as violating its anti-Semitism policy.

Thousands of copies had already been printed for the book, written by poet Jazz Money. The decision has prompted several prominent Australian writers to sever ties with UQP and sparked allegations of political censorship.

In January, Chun published an essay on his Substack newsletter critiquing public responses to the Bondi shooting, where two gunmen killed 15 people at a Jewish festival on December 14. Victims included Rabbi Eli Schlanger, leader of the local Chabad mission.

Chun accused the 'Australian left' of trying to 'perform respectability and avoid accusations of anti-semitism' after the shooting, and criticized media coverage. He also criticized Chabad and Schlanger for supporting Israel's military actions and illegal settlements in Palestinian territories.

The University of Queensland stated Chun's comments were 'abhorrent and hateful to the innocent victims' and that it 'cannot overlook or condone them.' It regretted the impact on Money and said copies are in storage while considering 'recycling options.'

New South Wales Police told the BBC they are 'working with the Engagement and Hate Crime Unit' regarding the post. Chun wrote on Instagram that the university 'has not identified the specific passages or statements' violating its policies.

Money said her relationship with UQP is 'now over' and warned that pulping the book sets a precedent for censorship. Several writers, including Evelyn Araluen and Randa Abdel-Fattah, have announced boycotts or termination of contracts with UQP.

Source: www.bbc.com