The Forum > Article Comments > Racial origin should not be something that divides us > Comments
Racial origin should not be something that divides us : Comments
By Teresa Gambaro, published 1/5/2014Are we a society that builds on the strength of our multicultural heritage, or one characterised by intolerance and bigotry.
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So called racism often has legitimate origins based on behaviours of ethnic groups. It may cause others to be suspicious of all members of the group based on the actions of a minority - albeit a minority which is statistically over-represented. Tough! Mostly any individual gains respect and acceptance through their own behaviour and projection - regardless of background.
But let's also look at the expression of racism in Australian society and how this is reported.
If there is incidence of one minority group clashing with another - chiefly over matters of race or culture - the 'R' word never gets a mention. This particular situation is not at all uncommon but political correctness usually results in either little or no reporting of incidents. Often - in cases where 2 ethnic groups have clashed - where one group is primarily migrant and the other group primarily Australian born, the second group will be described simply as "Australian". A glaring example is the Indian Student assaults several years ago. The attackers belonged to middle-eastern racial/cultural gangs. However due to their status as born in Australia - that was how the crime was reported.
Racism only really becomes NEWS when some Caucasian type acts in a way perceived offensive by a Minority group or individual or commits real crime against them. It then becomes a BIG STORY and target of much commentary of what a mob of racists White Australians are. Should there be evidence of racial hate in crime committed by a minority group or individual against Caucasians, you can be sure this will be downplayed and even suppressed. Some half-wit will undoubtedly start bleating about 'reverse racism' - a ridiculous concept but one that the PC brigade loves to play with.
So roll on reform if it frees us from some of the stupidity we see today - where many fear speaking openly about serious issues for fear of being accused for stating the truth.