Why is this important?

Australia and Melbourne are home to the oldest continuing culture of all time. Since 1788 and European colonisation, we’ve seen the racism of the dispossession of Aboriginal people and the white Australia policy.

Our history as a nation is also built on the stories of immigrants from across the globe. Our strength is in our diversity. Now the proud achievements of Australian multiculturalism are under attack.

The rise of Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, Cory Bernardi and Donald Trump has provided legitimacy to racist, hateful views - including calling for a ban on the burqa, a Royal Commission into Islam and blocking Muslim immigration. 

We cannot be silent in the face of these attacks.

Now more than ever it is important to stand up for the rights of all people and to stand shoulder to shoulder with those in our community facing discrimination.

Melbourne is lucky to be one of the most diverse places in Australia, and we will continue to make our city a place of respect, acceptance and welcome.

We will organise together to fight racism and intolerance.

Join us.

Ellen Sandell, Victorian Greens MLA for Melbourne

Adam Bandt, Australian Greens MP for Melbourne