The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) has condemned incidents of racial abuse directed at staff members at the Royal Hands Chinese Massage business in Geelong. According to reports, members have been repeatedly harassed by students, one who allegedly tried to steal a phone and cash.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms this unacceptable outburst of prejudice-fuelled behaviour, and am increasingly concerned about the rising tide of intolerance permeating our society. We are better as a nation than stereo¬types, slurs, smears and insults. In addition to those individuals directly targeted, such troubling attacks deeply affect the entire community and leave them feel vulnerable. The ADC is proud to stand in solidarity with the Chinese community of Geelong. Australians of all faiths, nationalities, and ethnicities should feel secure in their work place without the fear of being singled out for vilification simply because of who they are. The fact that young people are involved in this distressing episode is an urgent reminder that racism and bigoted attitudes towards minorities remain a force, and that they must be countered with educational initiatives such as our groundbreaking, school-based program Click Against Hate. The Jewish community knows all too well what it is like to be victims of prejudice, and has always argued that we must reject any expressions of xenophobia whenever they surface. We call on the good people of Geelong—from all backgrounds— to say in one voice that there is absolutely is no room for hate in our tolerant and respectful Australia.”
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting racism through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and all forms of hatred.
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on 9272 5677.