An Anti-Racism Framework: Experiences and Perspectives of Multicultural Australia An Anti-Racism Framework: Experiences and Perspectives of Multicultural Australia Caste-based discrimination In 2022, following a submission from caste-oppressed communities and academics in Australia, the Commission recognised caste-based discrimination as an intersectional form of discrimination. Caste refers to “strictly codified, socio-religious hierarchical system made up of classes and sub-classes that are ranked based on underlying ideas of purity and pollution” and which is historically associated with some South Asian communities. 34 Similarly, the consultations in Sydney revealed that caste identity and hierarchy is ‘entrenched within the Australian South Asian communities,’ even though they might not be noticed by those outside of these communities. Caste consciousness is present in schools and workplace relationships; in how social networks are organised; in the way employment opportunities are offered; and, in the exclusion of Dalits from social events, amongst other forms of discrimination. Giving continuity to that process, the consultations organised by FECCA included specific consultations on caste discrimination in Australia. They involved: one study led by members from caste-oppressed communities and academics, drawing upon interviews and focus groups, involving 146 participants; and two online consultations, and one face-to-face consultation in Sydney. The transposition or ‘transnationalisation’ of rigid social systems through migration is not unique to the South Asian communities in Australia. It is common that communities will carry with them social norms and practices through migration, and these can at times be based on discrimination. It is critical that the Australian systems, institutions, and social practices send a clear signal that those forms of discrimination are not accepted. As suggested below, an anti-racism framework is an important mechanism through which Government and civil society can demonstrate antiracism commitment and the principles we stand for. The first study identified caste-based discrimination as a significant problem in Australia that goes beyond interpersonal or inter-group interactions within the South Asian community and affects systems and institutions: “Participants reported worst of caste identity-based discrimination in form of physical assault, being treated as untouchables (especially children), and socioeconomic boycott on business and persons. The results also pointed towards presence of overt and covert forms of prejudice and discrimination based on the caste identity in education, employment, marriage, intersectional discrimination based on gender and religion (and of course caste) and exclusionary practices that make caste as the central consideration of socio-cultural and socio-economic life in Australia within the Indian diaspora community. The impact of such pervasive discrimination was negative, and it significantly affected the well-being, mental, and psychological, of the caste oppressed persons.” – Report from consultations with casteoppressed communities One of the most powerful consequences of systemic racism is that it embeds a logic of conflict amongst those who are marginalised by this system. For many individuals in multicultural communities in Australia, internalised racism and attempts to improve their position in the (white) dominant system, can often lead to discriminatory behaviours that feed into internal differences and reproduce racialised hierarchy. 34 20 Addressing Racism: An anti-racism Framework “ Anti-racism involves actively attempting to combat racist policies, practices, culture, and ideas. Anti-racism is about more than being ‘not racist.’ It involves active decisions that seek to combat injustice and promote racial equity. It can be helpful to think of anti-racism as a skill set that we can all develop and use to promote a better, more equitable society.” (Australian Human Rights Commission) Consultations aimed to capture how people with lived experience of racism would like to see racism being addressed. Interestingly, participants could clearly articulate that while racism was made visible in relationships – interpersonal, inter and intracommunities, or in relation to institutions, the proposed actions should be directed towards systemic change: “It should happen from a constitutional change, policy making, making a few years’ worth of action plan and then implementing it via multiple platforms and then evaluating the success. The issues should be openly talked about.” – Consultation with refugee women The first step in that process would involve breaking the silence around racism: “To address the issues of discrimination, bullying, harassment, and racism, first, we should admit that there is a problem, and it happens every single day in almost every situation.” – Consultation with refugee women Whilst there was a variety of specific suggestions on what an anti-racism framework should include, participants repeatedly mentioned certain actions and areas for intervention, which allowed us to summarise them in the categories below. Government leadership Government commitment and action through enforcing laws, enacting policies, and holding media to account was identified as essential to create change. Government was also mentioned as having an important role in creating positive narratives about migrants in Australia, in recognition of their longestablished contribution. “I suppose on an individual level, we are the agents of change. So, we have to take agency for our actions and for our decisions and for our thinking. But on a systemic level, governments can do a lot to offer those ways of thinking and doing and behaving, and policies and frameworks can help us guide that.” – Consultation with faith communities Some participants emphasised that policymakers and political leaders should better engage with multicultural communities in order for legislation to be effectively anti-racist: “When making policy or laws – consult directly with the community. You never know if there’s hidden bias. Don’t assume the solution, have community inform the solution.” – Consultation with young people This extended further to the need for better political representation of different ethnicities, cultures, and religions, to ensure that the diverse voices and perspectives of Australian society are truly represented. Invest in anti-racism education and training Education was identified as a key area for anti-racism actions. Starting early and teaching children and young people, with reforms in school curriculum to embed core components around First Nations people’s history, multiculturalism and migration, as well as education on racism and anti-racism, were suggested. The issue of caste discrimination was also mentioned, with suggestions for curriculum review to include education on caste systems. “A lot of time is spent on colonial period history in primary schools, on the first settlers, ‘explorers’ and bushrangers, which then becomes a critical part of national identity. It would be useful to include some modern history around the waves of migration, dismantling the white Australia policy, Australia’s relationship with Asia and its participation in the Pacific Theatre during WWII. Even a discussion around precolonial trade and an acknowledgement that migration is not a modern invention in our national context could prevent ignorant statements like, “go back where you come from” or a general message of not belonging.” – Consultation with new and emerging communities “Governments must implement and enforce antidiscrimination laws, promoting diversity in public offices, and investing in initiatives that address inequality are crucial steps. Community engagement plays a vital role in implementing government messaging and fostering inclusivity. The education system starting from early childhood education, should emphasise inclusivity, diversity, and cultural competence.” – Consultation in Canberra, with various cohorts Australian Human Rights Commission 2022, p.73. 21