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• Yasmine Johnson is a central figure in the anti-Hanson protest movement.
• States that acts of violence are ‘legitimate political action’

A coordinator of the day’s demonstration against Pauline Hanson, which is urging high school students to leave their classes and protest the One Nation party, has openly supported political violence.

Yasmine Johnson, an education officer with the National Union of Students and a protest organizer, was a guest on the The Party Line podcast on July 14.

Johnson was questioned about whether she still supported her earlier claim that “violence committed by an oppressed group against their oppressor is a valid political action.”

“I do support that,” Johnson responded.

Her remarks occur as student activists prepare for a countrywide demonstration against Hanson on August 13.

A collective known as High School Anticapitalists, associated with Socialist Alternative, is urging students across Australia to skip classes and take part in protests opposing Hanson and One Nation.

Johnson is part of the Socialist Alternative group.

Marketing materials state that students will leave classrooms to demonstrate, as organizers refer to the increasing impact of Hanson and One Nation before the upcoming elections.

“High school students are planning to leave their classes as a demonstration against Pauline Hanson and One Nation on August 13,” organizers stated.

In partnership with the wealthy and the ruling class, One Nation envisions a more authoritarian and hostile society for everyday people, while building a luxurious haven for billionaires, property owners, and the elite.

Johnson has also gained public support from Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi, who has commended her through social media and formal declarations.

In July, Faruqi stated: ‘Thank you, Yasmine, for your bravery in confronting authority with honesty.

And appreciate every student who has continued to attend, despite universities turning into a battleground in the attempt to suppress the Palestine solidarity movement by using antisemitism as a tool.

Faruqi has also supported Johnson’s participation in the People’s Inquiry on Campus Free Speech, which was initiated in June.

Johnson was featured in media announcements supporting the investigation.

Complimenting the participants, Faruqi stated: ‘The bravery and valor of the staff and students who have been involved in this Inquiry and who keep raising their voices are a symbol of hope during these challenging times.’

Faruqi referred to Johnson and other students participating in the investigation as a ‘source of inspiration’ for keeping up the conversation about campus matters.

Johnson, who identifies as Jewish, gained widespread attention after testifying before the Royal Commission on Antisemitism, during which she advocated for the dismantling of Israel and emphasized her view that Palestinians have the right to engage in violent resistance.

Faruqi has also openly endorsed the demonstration against Hanson.

In a video posted on social media, Faruqi completed a ‘permission form’ allowing students to leave school and join the protest.

“Are you telling me that the far right is gaining strength, that groups such as Pauline Hanson’s One Nation aim to undo women’s rights, workers’ rights, and environmental safeguards, that you’re tired of One Nation’s racist, sexist, anti-worker, and polarizing policies, and that you wish to participate with thousands of students on Thursday, August 13, in a nationwide demonstration, and you’re seeking my approval?” she says.

Naturally. I hope you have put up a large sign. Enjoy yourself.

The Daily Mail reached out to Johnson, the National Union of Students, and Mehreen Faruqi for their input.

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