Human Rights Commission calls for calm amid terror allegations

06/08/2009

The Victorian Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission has called for calm and warned against any racial backlash after recent terrorism-related arrests.

Speaking in response to reports that some Somali people have already been physically and verbally abused since the terror allegations were publicised, Commission CEO Dr Helen Szoke said that Australians must not let anger and fear distort their humane treatment of others.

"The truth is that the overwhelming majority of recently-arrived Somali and Muslim Australians have come to Australia to escape violence and terror, not perpetuate it."

"We need to remember that Muslim Australians are our neighbours, friends, members of our families, fellow students and co-workers," said Dr Szoke. "All they want is to find acceptance and fair treatment as Australians."

"We know that with an increased fear of terrorism both globally and in Australia, innocent people have been singled out and abused just for looking different."

"I hope that Australians have learnt in the years since September 11 2001 that it is completely unacceptable and absurd to vilify an entire group of innocent people, because of the actions of a very small minority," said Dr Szoke.

Vilification is expression of hatred that threatens the rights of people to live in the community with a sense of safety and personal security, like being able to go to school or work or do the shopping without feeling afraid. The Victorian Parliament passed the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act in 2001 to protect Victorians against vilification.

In December 2008 the Commission released the Rights of Passage report which found that racism was preventing young African-Australians from feeling safe in public, participating in community life and accessing services.

"It is precisely these issues that can result in young people feeling disconnected from the broader community," said Dr Szoke. "We need to work together - community members, support services, government departments and police - to ensure we're giving our best support to these young people."

To find out more about the Rights of Passage report and recommendations, visit www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au

Any person who is subjected to racist attack or verbal abuse can call Commission for help on (03) 9281 7100.

Media enquiries to Janeen Lynch (03) 9281 7153 or 0419 337 734

Dr Helen Szoke, CEO, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Victorian Human Rights Commission is available for interview.