Communities say ‘Unite against racism’

A community speak-out and banner drop against racism in the inner city suburb of Glebe drew about 50 people on September 26 despite the unusual heat.

Carolyn Ienna, Wiradjuri person and Glebe-based artist and activist, gave the acknowledgment of Country and a statement from Uncle Raymond Minniecon, responding to Hanson’s comment that Aboriginal people are the “most primitive race” was read out.

Speakers included Ethan Floyd, USyd student and community organiser; Ishita Chakrabarty from Hindus for Human Rights; Divya from University of NSW SRC and Grassroots; Rachel Evans, Socialist Alliance candidate for Heffron; Theodore, a year-12 student who helped organise the walk-out against Pauline Hanson; and Isaac Nellist, Socialist Alliance candidate for Balmain.

They all called for united action to stop the rise of the far right and highlighted Labor and the Coalition’s complicity in normalising racism and divisive politics.

The rally marched down Glebe Point Road and along Parramatta Road to the University of Sydney footbridge where they held up giant lettering which read “UNITE AGAINST RACISM”. Drivers tooted in support.

Racists had used the same bridge, which crosses the bust Parramatta Road, to unfurl their hateful slogans several months back.

The community action was organised by Socialist Alliance and widely endorsed by community and activist groups.