University of Sydney sacks staff member for verbally harassing Jewish students
Nakad who claims to be an indigenous Palestinian and cultural activist, confronted the students, calling them them “parasites”, “rubbish” and “filthy f***ing zionists.”
The incident happened in October on university grounds, when a group of students were reportedly celebrating the Jewish holiday Sukkot. (Photo: University of Sydney)
The University of Sydney in Australia has said that it has sacked a staff member who was seen verbally abusing a group of Jewish students. The staffer has been identified as Rose Nakad, a lecturer at the Department of Media and Communications.
What University of Sydney said
The University of Sydney issued a statement on Monday, December 15, calling the staff member’s behaviour deeply distressing and utterly unacceptable.
University of Sydney said in October that the staffer was immediately suspended. (Photo: University of Sydney)
“We immediately suspended the staff member pending a formal process, and have now terminated their employment on the grounds of serious misconduct. This decision followed careful consideration in line with our clear expectations of behaviour and our obligation to make sure our campuses are safe and welcoming for all,” the University statement said.
“We quickly apologised to our students and staff who were affected by this incident, with ongoing free and confidential wellbeing support available to anyone in our community who may need it,” it said, adding that “hate speech, antisemitism and harassment have no place at our University.”
The incident happened in October on university grounds, when a group of students were reportedly celebrating the Jewish holiday Sukkot.
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Nakad who claims to be an indigenous Palestinian and cultural activist, confronted the students, calling them them “parasites”, “rubbish” and “filthy f***ing zionists.”
“A Zionist is the lowest form of rubbish … Zionists are the most disgusting thing that has ever walked this earth,” she was heard saying in a video clip that went viral.
Following a formal complaint by the students, the University of Sydney said in October that Nakad was immediately suspended from professional duties, including teaching and an investigation was also launced against her.
The University of Sydney announced the termination of Nakad a day after 15 people were shot dead by two Islamic State-inspired gunmen at Bondi Beach while celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah.
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Rise in antisemitic attacks in Australia
Australia is home to a Jewish community which has an estimated population of 120,000. The community has alleged that there is an increase in antisemitic attacks in Australia, with the Bondi Beach attack being the latest and the deadliest.
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The incident happened in October on university grounds, when a group of students were reportedly celebrating the Jewish holiday Sukkot. (Photo: University of Sydney) 
