Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi has publicly endorsed an upcoming student protest against Pauline Hanson and One Nation, despite a key organizer of the event having previously defended political violence.
Yasmine Johnson, education officer for the National Union of Students and an organizer of the August 13 protest, stated on a podcast on July 14 that she stands by the belief that "acts of violence by an oppressed people against the oppressor are a legitimate political act." High School Anticapitalists, a group affiliated with Socialist Alternative, is organizing the nationwide walkout.
Faruqi has expressed support for Johnson on social media and in official statements. In a video promoting the rally, Faruqi signed a "permission slip" for students to attend the protest. "You're telling me that the far right is on the rise... and you want my permission?" Faruqi said in the video. "Of course. I hope you've made a big sign. Have fun."
Organizers stated that students will walk out of classes to protest what they describe as the growing influence of Hanson and One Nation ahead of upcoming elections. They contend that One Nation is attracting a significant following and that major parties are adopting its policies and rhetoric on issues such as immigration and abortion. The organizers aim to present an alternative to what they characterize as a far-right agenda.
Johnson has also been praised by Faruqi for her involvement in the People's Inquiry into Campus Free Speech. Faruqi described Johnson and other students involved as a "beacon of hope" for speaking out on campus issues.
Johnson, who is Jewish, previously testified before the Royal Commission into Antisemitism, where she called for the abolition of Israel and reaffirmed her belief in the right to "resist violently."
Faruqi has previously supported Johnson, stating in July, "Thank you, Yasmine, for your courage in speaking truth to power." She also thanked students for continuing to show up, referencing what she described as the "weaponization of antisemitism" against the Palestine solidarity movement on university campuses.