BRMC to lead anti-racism campaign

Grant announcement: Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison, BRMC chair Joy Sawiche Juma, EO Ann Foley, and Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle at Friday’s Winter Market. Photo: SUPPLIED

BALLARAT Regional Multicultural Council has received a significant State funding boost to drive anti-racism campaigning.

In line with a new Victorian Anti-Racism Taskforce, a $70,000 grant is going towards BRMC’s No to Racism campaign in Western Victoria.

Aimed at engaging and educating the community, the program will seek to decrease racist attitudes and actions.

Anti-racism and bystander campaigns will be co-designed and presented, while intercultural arts and music sessions, and interfaith activities will target young people.

BRMC executive officer Ann Foley said racist behaviours and attitudes are poisonous.

“Racism isn’t funny, isn’t casual, isn’t sporting. It isn’t free speech. It is thwarting… and it is illegal. Nevertheless, it continues to be tolerated in our communities, poorly understood and often unreported,” she said.

“Racial abuse, as well as the micro-aggressions that occur every day in public, workplaces and community settings, destroy confidence and connection between people. Not just in the moment of the insult, put-down or refusal to welcome.

“The ripple effect is that racism thwarts careers, relationships, corporate entities, even countries. Racism is the small-minded voice that says, ‘I’m scared of difference. I hate what I can’t know or be, so I’ll bring it down and squash it’.”

BRMC chair Joy Sawiche Juma will represent the organisation on the Taskforce, alongside 10 others.

“We applaud the Victorian Government’s decision to appoint a Victorian Anti-Racism Taskforce to address this issue with the leadership, determination and thoroughness we need to grow into a thriving and unashamedly welcoming and diverse community,” Ms Foley said.

Member for Buninyong Michaela Settle said racism has no place in the community.

“Working with wide and diverse groups, BRMC will help to spread the message of tolerance and understanding,” she said.

“I congratulate Joy, as she will be able to ensure the unique experiences of rural and regional multi-cultural communities are heard,” she said.