Community Forum on Racism

Wednesday 11 May 2005

The University of Newcastle will host a community forum at its Callaghan campus on Thursday 12May to discus the issue of racism in our community.

There have been several events over the past 12 months that have focused attention on aspects of racist behavior in our region.

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Nick Saunders says people in the University and wider community have taken a strong stand against racist behavior in the region, both in 2004 and again earlier this year, and seek the opportunity to work together to develop ongoing strategies to counter racism and foster cultural harmony.

"Our local regions and the campuses of the University are enriched by the contributions of people from other cultures. Our history reflects the importance of those contributions over the years," said the Vice-Chancellor.

"The University of Newcastle which is home to a great cultural mix is particularly pleased to be hosting the forum. On the three campuses of the University over 90 nationalities are represented."

President of the Newcastle and Hunter Region Ethnic Communities Council, John Gebhardt says Australia's cultural diversity is one of its great strengths.

"One in every six Australians was born overseas and it is vitally important that we have a welcoming and encouraging attitude to people of different nationalities and cultures who come to live and study in our community."

"The forum will provide an opportunity to get a community wide perspective on the extent of racism in our region, the effect it has on people in the community and what might be done to combat it." said John Gebhardt.

The forum is expected to be the first of a series of community initiatives to counter racism and strengthen the concept of our regions as welcoming communities. It will provide a mechanism for considering how we might work together to develop ongoing strategies to promote the value of cultural diversity.

Guest Speaker will be Paula Abood, a Sydney-based community cultural worker, human rights activist and writer who is a frequent contributor at national forums on racism and cultural harmony.

The Forum will include representatives from councils and government departments, community agencies the business sector, police, student associations and Central Coast communities.

Vivian Schenker formerly of SBS and Radio National will facilitate the Forum at the Griffith Duncan Theatre, Callaghan campus from 1pm Thursday 12 May 2005. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

For Interviews contact John Gebhardt, Newcastle and Hunter Region, President of the Ethnic Communities Council on 02 4979 1241