FUNDING FOR ANTI-RACISM STRATEGY REJECTED

ANDREW GILES MP.
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3 years ago
FUNDING FOR ANTI-RACISM STRATEGY REJECTED
ANDREW GILES MP
Funding for a national anti-racism strategy has been rejected for five years by the Morrison Government, according to the Race Discrimination Commissioner, Mr Chin Tan. 

The Morrison Government just doesn’t get it. Refusing to fund an anti-racism strategy is proof they aren’t serious about tackling the scourge that is racism. 

Racism is unacceptable. Failing to act on racism is unacceptable.

The Race Discrimination Commissioner has stated that: “it’s not enough for governments to condemn racism: They need to actively support efforts to stamp it out — both financially and also in terms of leadership.”

In 2011, under the Gillard Labor Government, the commission received $1.7m in funding over four years to implement a national anti-racism strategy. The commission has requested new funding for the strategy every year since 2015, and has been rejected every time. 

Labor welcomes the leadership of the Race Discrimination Commissioner in trying to lead change and tackle racism – but he’s being let down by Scott Morrison and his refusal to fund an anti-racism strategy.

Racism is damaging to individuals and communities.

Federal Labor has been calling for an anti-racism strategy for more than a year. 

Labor understands that the vast majority of Australians do the right thing, but racism anywhere is a threat to all of us. 

It’s time for Scott Morrison to join with Labor and commit to a national anti-racism strategy, one aimed at empowering communities and changing attitudes.

Everyone deserves to be respected and to belong. 

It’s time for a national anti-racism strategy.
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