Launch of the Discussion paper for African Australians: A report on human rights and social inclusion issues
16 March 2009
Media
- Project aims to offer insight into experiences of African Australians
(16 March 2009) - Launch speeches (16 March 2009)
Everyday People Everyday Rights’ Victorian Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission’s Human Rights Conference
Melbourne Park Function Centre, Batman Ave, Melbourne
In launching the discussion paper for African Australians: A report on human rights and social inclusion issues in Melbourne, Tom Calma, Race Discrimination Commissioner, encouraged all who were interested to contribute by writing a submission and participating in national consultations.
“It is time to compile all the work that has been done and build a national picture about the everyday experiences of African Australians,” Commissioner Calma said. “However, while it is critical to hear about what is bad, it is also important to hear about what is good, and what are the many positive contributions made by African Australians across the country.”
Commissioner Calma is keen for African Australian voices to be heard. In referring to well-known Commission reports such as Children in Detention, Same Sex: Same Entitlements and Bringing Them Home, Commissioner Calma emphasised that everyday experiences of human rights are often better understood through personal stories.
“These reports have helped share and raise awareness of other people’s everyday experience of human rights – often unlike your own. These reports have made people think. They have also helped people to understand. In this way, they have helped foster a stronger, more inclusive human rights culture which promotes greater respect and understanding among all Australians. But – these reports have also led to important policy changes. The impacts have been significant for those involved but, I believe, have advanced Australia as a nation.”
Speeches
- Tom Calma, Race Discrimination Commissioner
- Abeselom Nega, Steering Committee member and Immediate Past Chair of the Federation of African Communities Council
Photos
(Click on photos for a larger image)
Tom Calma and project staff at the launch and meeting with African community members
