As we work towards racial equality in Australia, All Together Now has put together a list of 10 tips to help people who are new to the movement for racial equality in Australia.
1. Understand what racism is
It is important to understand what racism is so that you are able to recognise it in different social situations. By understanding it, you can learn to prevent it, thereby reducing its presence in your life. To learn more about what racism is, visit our FAQ page.
2. Know the consequences of racism
Once you understand what racism is, learn about the consequences of racism. Children in particular are vulnerable to the effects of racism, so the more you know, the more you can help. Check out our infographics on How Racism Affects Kids as well as Racism in Australian Schools, or visit our Racism page.
3. Speak out against overt or everyday racism
If you witness overt or casual racism, whether it is on public transport or in a private setting, always speak out against it. For more tips on how to speak out on public transport, take a look at our infographic.
4. Join the online conversation
The Internet is a great place to share your attitudes against racism with others, as well as to contribute to engaging discussions. It is a platform for you to be part of a national community who is working towards the common goal of racial equality. Join All Together Now on Facebook and Twitter to be part of our online conversation.
5. Be informed
If you are informed about social issues, then you will be able to communicate factually correct and interesting information to others, thereby helping them gain a better understanding of the world around them. Do not spread false or assumed information about other cultures – it will reflect poorly on you. You can stay up-to-date with the latest news and events about racism in Australia by signing up to our email newsletter.
6. Avoid stereotyping others
You might think that stereotypes are funny, but in reality, they’re more harmful than you think. Stereotypes are difficult to change, and they also show your own ignorance, so avoiding them is the best way to go! To learn more about casual racism, click here.
7. Be tactful
When approaching others about the issue of racism, always be careful. You don’t want to provoke someone by denying them their chance to speak. Listen to what other people have to say first, and you might be able to see the basis of their prejudice – something that you can put right! Ask open-ended questions to create an engaging and constructive conversation that can help change someone’s perceptions of others.
8. Use dissonance to help inspire others
Dissonance refers to that uncomfortable feeling that emerges when you realise that two or more of your ideas or beliefs are incompatible. This can be a great way to show others that they might need to rethink their attitudes. For example, someone who claims to believe in equality for all might also have negative prejudiced attitudes towards a minority group. This leads to a discrepancy in their words and their actions. It’s up to you to show them this incongruence, which may allow them to realise their mistake. Approach the topic with caution though – don’t attack someone for making an honest mistake!
9. Show empathy
Displaying empathy towards others by putting yourself in their shoes can help both you and them to overcome racial stigma. Empathy is one of our most powerful tools, so make sure you use it to help others. Play our app to immerse yourself in someone else’s world.
10. Support the movement
At All Together Now, we’re striving to make Australia a place of equality. If you would like to contribute to our cause, please make a donation so that we can continue our work.
What do you think? What are some other tips that you recommend for the movement for racial equality?
As a person who is working on past racial issues and feels the desire to not only work on myself but figure out ways of standing up against racism and helping in blue the lines that for me cause so much confusion. I need help in assisting me my racist past but also see where my beliefs are screwed up. This article was terrific and is a start but I could use more help. Thanks!