Six southern Tasmanian councils came together yesterday to launch an anti-racism campaign with a symbolic walk along Hobart’s waterfront.
The ‘We Stand Together Against Racism’ initiative, driven by Brighton, Sorell, Glenorchy, Clarence, Hobart and Kingborough councils, celebrates cultural diversity across the region and sends a strong message against racial discrimination.
Former premier and Migrant Resource Centre chair Peter Gutwein joined the mayors and council CEOs for the walk, which started at Hunter Street and finished at Parliament Lawns.
“As a former migrant myself, I want to thank the six councils for standing together against racism,” Gutwein said.
“Tasmania generally is an inclusive and respectful place but occasionally we let ourselves down.”
Brighton Mayor Leigh Gray said he was “heartened” by the united effort.
“It is vital that as community members and Tasmanians, we stand strong and united against the pervasive issue of racism,” he said.
Glenorchy Mayor Sue Hickey spoke about the importance of celebrating diversity, pointing out that one in five Glenorchy residents were born overseas.
“Glenorchy’s rich cultural heritage is a cornerstone of our identity,” Hickey said.
Multicultural Council member Aimen Jafri said the walk sent a powerful message.
“Today, as we walk united against racism, we demonstrate to the world that Tasmania’s true strength is in its unity,” Jafri said.
“We stand as anti-racists, committed to acknowledging and respecting
our cultural, religious and racial differences.”
