The examples of racism widely reported in the media in recent weeks are gut-wrenching and heart-breaking. But this is not new.
The attention brought to the Black Lives Matter movement at the moment highlights the ongoing discrimination and prejudice against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. Whilst this has been known for a long time, we hope that this new momentum will begin to bring about the required change to end injustice and inequity.
This discrimination results in disparities in areas such as life expectancy, health and wellbeing, educational achievement and economic opportunity when compared to non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It also prevents us as a nation acknowledging our true history and its continued impact, and utilising the wisdom of Indigenous Australians.
Now and always, Your Community Health stands in solidarity with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community and all people of colour.
To our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and all people of colour in our community we say:
- We see the burden that you carry as a result of systemic racism and discrimination that allows these injustices to continue.
- We do not tolerate unacceptable behaviours or attitudes.
- We will continue to address inequity and speak out against racism whenever we see it.
- We are your ally and will work with you for a better and just community.
- We will continue to learn and walk this journey together.
Your Community Health values diversity and recognises the inherent benefits that come from promoting an environment of mutual learning, respect, dignity and openness to all cultures, including an appreciation of commonalities, differences and a variety of perspectives.
As a community we will always be there for each other, especially at this time when many have been impacted by the events around the world.
If you want to do more to fight racism and discrimination in our community, you may like to refer to these resources:
What is systemic racism and institutional racism
Anti-racism resources for Australia and beyond
10 Documentaries to watch instead of asking a person of colour