The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) joins with a number of other organisations in a statement of support of Adam Goodes, following the racism directed towards him. As the national peak body representing Australia’s culturally and linguistically diverse communities and a member of the National Anti-Racism Partnership, FECCA strongly opposes all form of racism and discrimination.
Racism is racism and some members of the Australian community including media commentators should refrain from constantly trying to make excuses for it being something else.
FECCA Acting Chair, Eugenia Grammatikakis said, “However confronting it may be, members of Indigenous communities and minority groups should not be shut down when they stand up and speak about issues important to them and their communities. There needs to be respect even for views we may not agree with. In a free and democratic society all should have an opportunity, without offending others, to safely express themselves and what they believe in.”
There should be zero tolerance for racist behaviours in sport and in all aspects of Australian life. Condoning and encouraging racist behaviour would do very little in strengthening our social cohesion, and creating a healthy and inclusive Australian society.
We condemn the racially motivated sledging and attacks on Adam Goodes during AFL matches. Racism has no place in Australian society, and we support Adam Goodes in proudly displaying his Aboriginal culture and heritage.
FECCA supports an Australia that is accepting and respectful of all people, regardless of their cultural, linguistic or religious background.
Media Comments: FECCA Office – (02) 6282 5755, media@fecca.org.au.