What We Want
#1 Political Leadership
We call on the Federal Government to do more to acknowledge and condemn the racist abuse targeted at Asian Australians as a result of COVID-19.
Use clear language
Politicians and media must make a clear distinction between Australia’s political dealings with the Government of China and Asian Australian members of our community. Terms like ‘the Chinese’ should not be used to refer to the political entity of China. Use the ‘Chinese Government’ when that is what you mean.
Invest in a response
For example, a health campaign that clearly separates the COVID-19 virus from the identities of people with Chinese or Asian backgrounds; an education campaign in schools to educate and empower young people with the language and tools to identify and combat racism; funding to the arts and screen sectors to create content that challenges racism, stereotypes and xenophobia.
#2 Business Leadership
Our data shows that many racist incidents are occurring in supermarkets and shopping centres. Businesses can show their solidarity and commitment to equity.
Post a statement
Train staff
Our data shows that many racist incidents are occurring in supermarkets and shopping centres. Businesses can show their solidarity and commitment to equity.
#3 National Anti-Racism Campaign
We urgently need a campaign that engages all levels of government, major institutions, industry bodies, education, health, unions, the creative sector and the broader community. Also, visit the #UnityOverFear campaign where high-profile Asian-Australians have started a petition to fight coronavirus-fuelled racism.
Reignite a national campaign Racism. It Stops with Me campaign from 2018.
Contribute to campaigns such as #IAmNotAVirus, #IAmNotAVirusAustralia, #WashTheHate, #UnityOverFear, #RacismIsAVirus, #IStandWithAsianAustralians, #Covid19Racism and #StopAsianHate. Also support businesses through campaigns like #iwilleatwithyou and #DontDumpTheDumplings. This will widen the reach of your message and add weight to it. Make sure you tag us too
What You Can Do
#1 Report racism to authorities
Australian Capital Territory: Human Rights Commission
New South Wales: Anti-Discrimination Board
Northern Territory: Anti Discrimination Commission
Queensland: Anti-Discrimination Commission
Tasmania: Anti-Discrimination Commission
Victoria: Equal Opportunity & Human Rights Commission
Hold media outlets and social media platforms accountable for biased reporting when they racialise COVID-19. You can make complaints to the:
#2 Raise your voice
More people than ever are spending their time online, and content consumption is at its peak. If you’re an artist, creative, content creator or media maker, take this opportunity to flex those muscles and get your message out!
– Contribute to campaigns such as #WashTheHate, #UnityOverFear, #IAmNotAVirus. This will widen the reach of your message and add weight to it. Make sure you tag us too
– Call out instances racist assumptions, racial profiling and stereotyping
– Share anti-racism messages (eg our posts!)
#3 Stand in solidarity
If you see a racist incident in person. People who have experienced #CoronaRacism in public places have reported feeling isolated and unsupported when bystanders looked on and did nothing. If you see an instance of racial abuse – and you feel safe to act – speak up and stand in solidarity. See: Racism. It Stops With Me campaign for more.
#4 Check in on friends
Who have experienced anti-Asian racism. They may need space to vent. Ensure that their concerns are heard and validated and they know about their rights, and where to go for support.
Check the anti-discrimination laws in your state.
#5 Know your rights
Check the anti-discrimination laws in your state.Have a read of this article:
Have a read of this article: How to Avoid (Unintentional) Online Racism – and Shut Down Overt Racism When You See It
