Pulp has issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to freedom of expression, clearly stating, “We want to make it absolutely clear that Pulp refuse to condone the silencing of voices. We celebrate difference, and oppose censorship, violence and oppression in all its forms.” This declaration comes amidst a controversy that has rocked the Adelaide Writers’ Week.

The turmoil began with the removal of author Randa Abdel-Fattah from the event’s lineup, prompting Pulp and several other acts to withdraw their participation. The incident triggered a chain reaction, leading to the withdrawal of 180 writers, including notable figures such as former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and acclaimed British author Zadie Smith. Additionally, the director of the Adelaide Writers’ Week, along with the former board chair and three board members, resigned in protest.

Consequently, the fallout from these decisions culminated in the complete cancellation of next month’s event. The situation has prompted a reassessment of the festival’s leadership and policies.

Pulp has acknowledged recent changes, stating, “It is our understanding that the festival programmers are now acting in good faith.” The band highlighted that the festival board responsible for the controversial decision has been replaced, and they noted that Randa Abdel-Fattah has received an apology and an invitation to participate in next year’s event.

“The festival board that made this dreadful decision have been replaced, and a full apology has been accepted by Randa Abdel-Fattah, who has been invited to appear next year.⁠

“Given this new and welcome development we feel able, in good conscience, to honour our invitation to perform in Adelaide on 27 February.

“We hope that our free concert will be an opportunity for different communities to come together in peace and harmony.⁠”

The Adelaide Writers’ Week is a world-renowned event that draws in dozens of local and international writers and more than 160,000 attendees each year.

The new board accepted that it had “fell well short” of upholding intellectual and artistic freedom and said it would honour the “powerful human right” moving forward.

The new chair and members are now left to pick up the pieces to restore public trust and repair reputational damage.

Abdel-Fattah has accepted the board’s apology and said she would consider its invitation to speak at next year’s event.

“Whilst AF’s statement acknowledges the harm done, it is not a quick fix to repair the damage and injury inflicted,” she said.