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Gomeroi Yinarr strongly condemn racist speakers
[by Gabi Briggs]
Image: supplied by Gomeroi yinarr
A collective of Gomeroi yinarr (women) from Tamworth, New South Wales, are speaking out against Barnaby Joyce, Pauline Hanson, Alan Jones, and other speakers panelling a conversation opposing the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament in Tamworth. These individuals have a long history of racist rhetoric and violence, which is unacceptable and harmful to our community.
"We categorically refuse to have racists on our country. We will not allow them to inflame intense racial tensions with discriminatory and exclusionary messages. These speakers have large followings and a legacy of racist rhetoric that creates environments for racially fuelled violence. We refuse to allow this to occur in Gomeroi country.
"The Gomeroi women are not advocating for or against the Voice to Parliament. Instead, they are calling attention to the real-life impact of allowing racists to have platforms and the danger of spreading misinformation. We urge the community of Tamworth to stand in solidarity in the fight against racism by refusing to engage in this rhetoric and with these people.
"There is a big fear that conversations held by right-wing speakers will not produce critical dialogue about the Voice to Parliament. Instead, it will bring out harmful racism in our society, putting our community at risk, especially our babies, our young people and Elders. The recent Neo-Nazi rally in Melbourne after a visit from anti-trans activist Posie Parker shows that people with extreme views incite violence.
"Barnaby Joyce, Pauline Hanson, and Alan Jones have a long history of promoting discriminatory, racist and exclusionary messages. Their words have real-life consequences and contribute to the ongoing racism faced by First Nations people in this country. We know that racism kills our mob. We believe everyone is responsible for speaking out against racism, and we call on all Australians to join us.
"Our community holds the answers. We know what works and are eager to share our knowledge with others. We urge the community to listen to our voices and take action to combat racism. We urge all people, organisations and media to centre conversations around truth telling processes, climate justice and economic freedom."
The Gomeroi yinarr are:
Amy Hammond
Lorelle Munro
Bronwyn Spearim
Emily Honess
Sophie Honess
Rachael Phillips
Amy Creighton
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