Haunted by Gazaplatsen in our hearts: Exploring microfascist encounters in everyday activism

This article explores the complex interplay between activism and academic research, particularly in the context of ongoing crises such as the genocide in Palestine and anti-gender politics. Drawing on ethnographic observations from two different research fieldworks and the experiences of anti-genocide activists, this article examines the persistent presence of the Palestinian issue in diverse contexts as a haunting feeling. Inspired by the insights from feminist ethnography and theory, we challenge the traditional separation of academic and activist identities, recognizing the influence of our academic knowledge and background as well as our activist experiences in shaping our understanding of contemporary political discourses and tensions at universities. As such, we analyse how seemingly minor acts of suppression and control within academic spaces and public life can be read through the concept of microfascism, and contribute to the broader silencing of dissent and the erosion of democratic principles. Through a nuanced exploration of microfascist encounters aimed at suppressing activism, such as purported security concerns regarding small informal student encounters organized for Palestine, and micro-regulations on putting up posters and announcements that permeate the daily lives of anti-genocide advocates, we discuss subtle yet pervasive forms of oppression that undermine academic freedom, social justice movements, and freedom of expression. Considering the growing presence of microfascist tactics in academia, we invite a reconsideration of the power systems that underpin universities in order to resist these oppressive forces within scholarly work and academic environments.