RMIT Student Faces Suspension Over Gaza Video Critique

Gemma Seymour, a fine arts student at RMIT University, is facing potential suspension following a video she posted that accuses the institution of being “complicit in genocide” due to its connections with weapons manufacturers through the Sir Lawrence Wackett Defence and Aerospace Centre. The video, shared on the RMIT Students for Palestine Instagram account, was recorded outside the centre and criticized RMIT's partnerships with companies involved in the defense sector. Seymour is scheduled for a student conduct hearing on April 22, where the university will address allegations of misconduct related to the video.

The Guardian

RMIT University has expressed concerns that the video compromises the safety and security of its facilities, staff, and students. The institution argues that publicly identifying the location of its research centre, which is not listed online, poses risks such as unwanted attention, harassment, or threats. In a conduct report sent to Seymour, RMIT stated that while the student's right to engage in global issues is acknowledged, the manner in which she did so raises significant safety concerns. The report also highlighted that the video could undermine the integrity of sensitive research areas and increase anxiety among the university community.

The Guardian

Seymour has criticized RMIT's response, suggesting that the university is attempting to suppress discussions about its research and affiliations with weapons manufacturers. She argues that the institution's focus on her actions rather than the implications of its partnerships with defense companies is problematic. “If the suspension gets through … it would have a chilling effect on the capacity for staff and students to criticize the university and engage in political activism,” Seymour stated, emphasizing the importance of freedom of speech in academic settings.

The Guardian

The incident occurs against a backdrop of heightened student activism in Australia, particularly regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. In 2024, pro-Palestine student encampments emerged across various universities, advocating for institutions to sever ties with weapons manufacturers and condemn Israel's actions in Gaza, which have been labeled as genocide by a United Nations commission of inquiry. The Sir Lawrence Wackett Defence and Aerospace Centre collaborates with entities such as the Australian Defence Forces, the US Department of Defence, and Boeing.

The Guardian

An RMIT spokesperson stated that all students are subject to behavioral expectations and conduct requirements, emphasizing that actions adversely affecting the university community will not be tolerated. The spokesperson refrained from commenting on the specific case but noted that penalties for misconduct could include suspension for up to one semester.

The Guardian

• “No more excuses RMIT. There is blood on your hands and we will not rest until you cut ties with all weapons companies,” — Gemma Seymour, RMIT Student

The Guardian

• “I think it’s a problem that RMIT would take more issue with a student standing under a sign, talking about the weapons companies it partners with, rather than the fact that the weapons companies it partners with are essential in facilitating war and genocide,” — Gemma Seymour, RMIT Student

The Guardian

• “Behaviours that breach our policies will not be tolerated and may result in disciplinary action being taken.” — RMIT Spokesperson

The Guardian

This situation highlights the tension between academic freedom and institutional safety, raising questions about the role of universities in political discourse.

The Guardian