Suggestions
James Godfrey
PhD Researcher, Birkbeck, University of London (visiting at Australian National University); Tutor; Consultant, OurRace
James Godfrey is a highly experienced organizer and teacher with over 35 years of experience working across various settings.
He holds a Bachelor of Laws, a Master of Social Development, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Law at Birkbeck College, University of London.
James has taught subjects like Sociology, Torts, and Criminal Laws at universities such as Birkbeck, University of New South Wales, and University of Sydney.
With a background as a trade union organizer in Sydney and London, particularly within the university sector, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge and insights.
His Ph.D. research delves into the impact of the 'Prevent' requirement in British counter-terrorism legislation on freedom of speech and academic freedom in English universities, focusing on issues related to perceived radicalization and campaigning about Israeli Occupied Palestine.
James Godfrey is currently serving as a spokesperson for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, advocating against the illegal blockade of Gaza by Israel.
Additionally, he is a member of the BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom, demonstrating his commitment to upholding academic liberties and advocating for justice.
Having campaigned on various social justice issues since the 1980s, his recent advocacy has predominantly centered around justice for Palestine.
His career has led him to work in both England and Australia, maintaining strong connections in both countries, although he is currently based in Australia.
James has held roles in prestigious organizations such as Our Race, Freedom Flotilla Coalition, University of Sydney, UNSW, Birkbeck School of Law, Unison, among others, showcasing his diverse professional background and expertise.
Highlights
'We have the duty to ensure that there is no Palestine exception to freedom of speech and academic freedom on our campuses... [T]he campaign to label Palestine scholarship, teaching, and activism on campuses as antisemitic has impacted academic freedom and the rights of scholars and students. It places Australian universities in a larger transnational context and demonstrates, through a focus on the environment in which academics and students operate—especially in the aftermath of Israel's 2023 War on Gaza—how the IHRA is a political tool used to censor speech on Palestine and shield Israel from criticism by labelling critical perspectives on Palestine as antisemitic...' Lana Tatour
New Report by Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) and Australian Muslim Advocacy Network (AMAN) Advocacy Network- 'Observations of Anti-Palestinian and Anti-Muslim Racism' (November 2023 - March 2024) Contents: Anti-Palestinian Racism; Dehumanising Material; Connection with Zionist and Right-Wing Leadership Themes:
- Denial of Indigeneity
- Violence is Justified or Denied
- Anti-Muslim Conspiracy
- Defaming Palestinians and Allies Other Important Notes Solutions
Available at: https://lnkd.in/gNHUcm2G
