Australians value equality, justice and fairness. Despite this, we know that racism exists and causes harm to many in Australia, preventing them from accessing equal opportunities and outcomes.
In 2022, we are relaunching the Racism. It Stops With Me campaign and redoubling our commitment to highlighting and tackling racism in communities, homes, workplaces and schools.
Racism is more than just harmful words or individual actions, but also informs the development of our society, institutions, laws, policies and norms. Racism is destructive to our collective well-being as a community. That is why we must all come together to take collective action against racism, and commit to active anti-racism efforts, to address it.
I believe we have the resolve and means to create a society that is truly just, equal and equitable. First Nations communities, and culturally and linguistically diverse communities, have been leading anti-racism action in Australia for many years. There is a role for everyone to play in building a better and safer Australia.
Now is the time for us to commit to learning, be accountable, act and work within our sphere of influence to create meaningful change and make a difference to eliminate racism.
Together, we can fight against racism and build a fair, just and equal society – for all.
Racism, it stops with us.