Activist removed from Bondi Beach vigil for wearing traditional Palestinian headscarf
January 6, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Activist Removed from Bondi Vigil Over Headgear
A Jewish activist was removed from a vigil in Bondi on Saturday after wearing a traditional headscarf known as a keffiyeh. Michelle Berkon, who is part of the group Jews Against the Occupation ‘48, reported being asked to leave the event.
According to Berkon, she was wearing the keffiyeh during the vigil and was subsequently removed by event staff. She stated that this experience made her feel uncomfortable and singled out.
The incident occurred at a vigil in Bondi, where protesters gathered to express their views on various issues. The event featured multiple speakers and attendees, but Berkon’s presence sparked attention due to her wearing of the keffiyeh.
Details about the nature of the protest or the specific issues being addressed are not available. However, it is known that Berkon is a member of Jews Against the Occupation ‘48, an organization focused on Jewish perspectives on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Berkon’s account of the incident has been shared publicly, highlighting her experience with being removed from the event due to her headgear. The specifics surrounding the removal and any subsequent actions taken by authorities or event organizers are not clear at this time.
Source: Al Jazeera