This International Day to Combat Islamophobia, President of the Australian Human Rights Commission Hugh de Kretser, Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman and Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay marked the importance of combating Islamophobia and reaffirm our commitment to tackling racism and discrimination.
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is observed on 15 March. It is the United Nations' call for the promotion of a culture of tolerance and peace, based on respect for human rights and for the diversity of religions and belief across the globe. It also falls on the anniversary of the mass shootings at two mosques in Christchurch New Zealand, where 51 Muslims were tragically killed while praying, in 2019.
"From the early connections between Indonesian fisherman and Aboriginal people in Northern Australia, Muslim people have made significant contributions to Australian society over several centuries. Today there are over 800,000 Muslim people in Australia. Yet prejudice against Muslim people is widespread and growing," President Hugh de Kretser said.
"Islamophobia harms and dehumanises people. It corrodes our society. Left unchecked it leads to violence. We must ensure our nation is a safe place for people from all religions and races, where dignity and respect for everyone is valued and upheld."
"Islamophobia has no place in our society. Every Australian, regardless of faith or background, has the right to live free from discrimination and fear," Race Discrimination Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman said.
"Unfortunately, Islamophobia continues to rise in Australia with Muslims facing increased racism across many areas of their lives, including at their workplaces, schools and universities, online, and in public spaces.
"In recent consultations conducted by the Australian Human Rights Commission, we heard that many Muslims are experiencing heightened feelings of dehumanisation, isolation and unsafety. We also heard that people who are visibly Muslim, especially women, are being particularly targeted and affected.
"The violent threat to a mosque in Edmondson Park earlier this month, where online threats were made referencing the Christchurch massacre is yet another reminder of the pressing need to combat Islamophobia. It is especially abhorrent that this occurred at the beginning of the sacred month of Ramadan. The Christchurch attacks were used as a threat, a mere fortnight before the anniversary of this tragic day.
"We will continue to listen to Muslim community groups during this challenging time. Harmful stereotypes and targeting of Muslims must be addressed for a safer and inclusive society".
Australia's Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay condemned the rise of Islamophobia.
"From the violent attack on two women in a Melbourne shopping centre to the online threat targeting a mosque in western Sydney, Islamophobia in Australia must be unequivocally condemned.
"These are threats against the values that we hold dear as Australians and have no place here".
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia serves as an opportunity for individuals, organisations, and communities to reflect on the impact of anti-Muslim prejudice and to call out Islamophobia.
The Australian Human Rights Commission calls on policymakers, businesses, and civil society to support initiatives such as the National Anti-Racism Framework to eliminate racism and promote positive engagement between communities.
