Big Day Out Against Racism
Saturday, 17 November 2007

Refugee Action Collective took part in a community organised denouncement of the Federal Government's attempt to isolate and marginalise the African community in Australia, and its targeting of the Sudanese community in particular.

We welcome African migrants and refugees and celebrate their valuable contributions to our community.

The Western suburbs "Racism No" Community Festival in support of African communities in Australia joined forces with the March for Multiculturalism.

The march started at 1pm at the State Library and participants were then invited to attend the Festival in Footscray which started at 4pm.

The two events were a combined show of support for the African-Australian community.

RAC ran a quiz on the stall to test people's knowledge of the contribution that refugees can make to a community that accepts them. If you missed your opportunity on the day, have a go on-line.
Check the quiz here

Festival performers included:

• The Conch
• Ajak Kwai
• Busted Onions
• The Brothahood
• Lorazi Red
• Valanga Khoza
• King Marong & more

watch The Spooky Men's Choir on Youtube (5:23 min)

Some facts and stats

Numbers in detention centres:

Manus Island: 0

In mainland detention: 386

On Nauru: 89: 7 from Burma, 82 from Sri Lanka; 72 have been granted refugee status so far. The 7 Burmese were sent there 18.09.06 (i.e. 425 days on 17 Nov); the Sri Lankans 17.03.07 (i.e. 245 days on Nov 17).

Cost of pacific prisons: 1 billion, or 500,000 per person detained.

Number on Bridging Visa E: 7,021. These visas do not permit holders to work, or any access to Medicare, thus forcing people to accept poverty.

Number on Temporary Protection Visas: 1,337 (Feb figure