In a recent survey conducted by the Scanlon Foundation, one in three respondents of non-English background reported personal experiences of discrimination based on skin colour, ethnicity or religion. While it is important to acknowledge the prevalence of racism within Australian society, it is misleading to label the entire country as “racist.” The accusation of being a racist country is often levied without sufficient evidence to support such a claim. The majority of respondents in a 2021 Amnesty International survey expressed belief in the importance of freedom from discrimination, and the Scanlon survey showed growing support for multiculturalism and inclusion of Indigenous histories in the school curriculum.
Despite the deep-rooted history of racism in Australia, including Indigenous massacres and the White Australia Policy, progress towards greater racial harmony has been ongoing for decades. The upcoming 50th anniversary of Australia’s Racial Discrimination Act signifies a commitment to combatting racism and discrimination. The failure of the Voice to parliament referendum was not indicative of inherent racism among Australians, but rather a result of effective fear-mongering by the No campaign. Politicians have the power to sway public opinion on issues like this, regardless of the inherent attitudes of the population.
Racial insensitivity is not confined to the far right, with instances of discrimination coming from various individuals regardless of political affiliation. The suggestion that Australia may not be as racist as perceived can elicit strong reactions, even from those who have not experienced racism firsthand. Recent comments by political figures like Peter Dutton, proposing restrictions on immigration, have sparked debate about racism in Australia. While such proposals may appeal to individuals with racist beliefs, they are not inherently racist themselves and may be driven by economic considerations.
Politicians often use rhetoric around immigration to appeal to fears and uncertainties within the electorate, especially during times of economic hardship. While this tactic has historically been successful in Australia, it is important to recognize the complexity of human behavior and motivations. Generalizations about the Australian character, particularly around racism, can be divisive and counterproductive, leading to resentment and defensiveness. It is crucial for individuals to engage in nuanced discussions about racism and discrimination, rather than resorting to simplistic labels and accusations.
In conclusion, while Australia faces challenges related to racism and discrimination, progress has been made towards greater inclusivity and diversity. It is essential to acknowledge the country’s history of racism while also recognizing the efforts being made to combat it. Rather than resorting to broad generalizations or accusations of being a “racist country,” individuals should engage in thoughtful and informed discussions about racism in order to promote understanding and unity within society.
