Human rights advocate and barrister Julian Burnside QC will speak about the plight of asylum seekers in Australia at Newport’s Substation on June 17.
His talk is part of Hobsons Bay council’s Refugee Week activities.
“I will probably be preaching to the converted – people who disagree with me tend not to bother turning up when I speak because they get facts and things … very awkward for them,” Mr Burnside said.
“The only thing I can think of that might change things now is for Labor to grow a spine and start telling the truth.
“Boat people are not illegal,” he said.
“The ones we turn away will likely try to get somewhere else but, if they die in that attempt or are killed by their persecutors, we don’t mind because we won’t see it on TV.
“In short, political talk about our concern for asylum seekers drowning is hypocritical nonsense and, when they say it, the politicians are lying.”
This free event will also feature Ethiopian musician Anbessa Gebrehiwot and local asylum seeker and refugee organisations talking about ways to make a difference in this backyard.
Hobsons Bay is home to people from more than 100 different countries.
A cultural event for Refugee Week will also be held at Laverton Hub from 10am-2pm on June 16.
It will feature Karen bamboo dancing, Bollywood dancing and workshop, Zumba, an Ethiopian harp performance and African drumming workshop. Details: 99321000.
