State Library of NSW apologises after security guard removed a student wearing Palestinian scarf
Image: The State Library of New South Wales. ArDanMe, Shutterstock
The State Library of New South Wales has issued an apology after a security guard removed a student wearing a traditional Palestinian scarf.
The library posted a public apology on its Instagram page on Monday morning, explaining a student had been removed from the building for wearing a keffiyeh, and said the security guard has been spoken to.
“We want to extend our sincerest apologies to the student affected by this incident and encourage them to get in touch with the Library,” the library said in their statement.
“The Library does not condone discrimination on the grounds of cultural dress. This is outlined in our Reader and Visitor Code of Conduct.”
The worsening humanitarian crisis in Palestine has sparked international outcry, with people across the globe wearing the keffiyeh as a symbol of solidarity with the 36,000 Palestinians killed.
The State Library of NSW said it strived to create “create a space where everyone feels safe and welcome”.
To ensure that an incident like this does not happen again, the library “will be reaffirming the Library’s Reader and Visitor Code of Conduct with all staff members.”
