The man awarded the title of Tasmania’s Australian of the Year in 2023 for his humanitarian work has announced plans to run for the Labor Party.
John Kamara will be contesting the seat of Clark in the upcoming state election.
“John started his life in Tasmania in 2004, after escaping war-torn Sierra Leone 19 years ago and since then has committed his life to helping others,” Leader Rebecca White said.
“John sits on multiple boards and is involved in many community groups, using his position to highlight systemic disadvantages for migrants such as racism, labour exploitation and the lack of recognition of overseas qualifications.”
White said Kamara was “exactly the type of person” needed in state parliament as the number of Tasmanians born overseas continues to rise.
“The growth of our cultural diversity should be reflected in the Parliament that represents Tasmanians, and John would be a fantastic addition,” she said.
Kamara said he was looking forward to getting his campaign underway.
“People like us need representation in parliament … This parliament now is very white,” he said.
“You walk the streets and you see so much diversity but it is not represented in our leadership.”
