An Anti-Racism Framework: Experiences and Perspectives of Multicultural Australia An Anti-Racism Framework: Experiences and Perspectives of Multicultural Australia Introduction “ Ultimately, a strong [national antiracism] framework will be one that reflects a coordinated, shared vision to meaningfully tackle racism, promote racial equality, ensure access to rights, and foster a cohesive sense of belonging for all Australians.” (Australian Human Rights Commission) 3 In March 2021, then Race Discrimination Commissioner, Chin Tan, called for a National Anti-Racism Framework. The concept paper supporting that call clearly articulated the link between racism and the Commission’s broader approach to human rights: 4 ‘The Commission’s Free and Equal process identifies an approach to human rights more broadly that is proactive and preventative in focus. In relation to racism, a rightsbased approach requires governments to: 6 • Respect: Governments do not discriminate through their own actions • Protect: Governments put in place protective measures (such as laws, educative measures) to prevent others from breaching human rights, and provide effective remedies where breaches occur • Fulfil: Governments take measures to ensure equal enjoyment of human rights and address inequality (especially structural or institutional discrimination).’ 5 3 Australian Human Rights Commission (2022). National anti-racism framework scoping report 2022. Australian Human Rights Commission, https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/race-discrimination/publications/ national-anti-racism-framework-scoping-report 4 Australian Human Rights Commission (2021). Concept paper for a national anti-racism framework. Australian Human Rights Commission, March, https://humanrights.gov.au/sites/default/files/document/publication/ ahrc_cp_national_anti-racism_framework_2021_.pdf 5 Australian Human Rights Commission 2021, p.12. 7