Goya Dmytryshchak
Community members are being invited to have their say on where to put anti-racism street signs as Maribyrnong becomes the first Victorian council to adopt the Racism Not Welcome campaign.
The campaign was started by Sydney’s Inner West Multicultural Network, which erected street signs to combat racist attitudes.
Signs were placed in busy inner-city streets to encourage locals to call out racism.
Maribyrnong mayor Michael Clarke said the community was being invited to help determine the wording for similar street signs and identify suitable locations.
“The aim of the campaign is to spark conversations within the community and promote positive change, though this will only be possible with strong community buy-in, which is why council is engaging the community to take ownership and shape the campaign’s look and feel – as well as the ability to nominate their street as a location to have a sign erected,” he said.
“Our community is wonderfully welcoming and diverse, which is exactly what makes Maribyrnong a great place to live, work and play.
“We know they will want to come forward and get on board to stamp out prejudiced behaviour and reinforce that racism is not welcome here.”
Maribyrnong residents hail from more than 135 different countries and speak more than 80 languages.
Cr Jorge Jorquera said the COVID pandemic had led to an increase in racist attacks.
“According to a report co-authored by Victoria’s Asian Australian Alliance, during the pandemic Victoria has had the second highest number of recorded racist attacks, after NSW,” he said.
To have your say, visit Your City Your Voice.
