A new report addressing the issue of Islamophobia in Australia has prompted strong responses from the Australian Greens, urging the government to take meaningful action. The report highlights the systemic nature of Islamophobia, emphasizing the urgent need for change in both policies and societal attitudes.
Senator Mehreen Faruqi, Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and spokesperson for Anti-Racism, welcomed the report, stating, “This report confirms yet again the depth and breadth of racism Muslim communities face in this country.” She called for the government to recognize that Islamophobia extends beyond individual incidents, asserting that it is a structural issue that requires comprehensive solutions.
Faruqi emphasized the importance of aligning the findings of the report with the National Anti-Racism Framework, which aims to create an inclusive society that protects First Nations and marginalized communities. “For years, Muslim communities have pleaded successive governments to take Islamophobia seriously,” she said. “This report should jolt the government into action to change course and finally act on racism with the seriousness it requires.”
In her remarks, Faruqi also pointed to the rising Islamophobia since the escalation of violence in Gaza, arguing that the political discourse surrounding these events has dehumanized Muslims, Arabs, and Palestinians. She stated, “Now is the time to reset,” calling for an end to the denial of Islamophobia by politicians.
Senator David Shoebridge, the Greens spokesperson for Justice and Home Affairs, echoed these sentiments, supporting an independent review of counter-terrorism laws and their application towards Muslim Australians. He highlighted concerns raised by the Muslim community regarding the uneven enforcement of policing practices, particularly in counter-terrorism operations.
“My office has had repeated contact from members of the Muslim community with glaring examples of policing that are grossly unevenly applied against them,” Shoebridge noted. He called on the Department of Home Affairs to foster a culture of respect and support for Muslim Australians, emphasizing that this necessary change requires leadership from the Minister and a shift in both rhetoric and enforcement practices.
Shoebridge also pointed out the troubling connection between anti-Palestinian sentiments and Islamophobia. He remarked on the increased backlash faced by Palestinian and Arab communities for advocating against violence and injustices. He stated, “Politicians who fuel this anger must take responsibility and be held to account.”
As discussions around Islamophobia gain traction, the Australian Greens are calling on the government to recognize the urgent need for systemic change. The report serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Muslim communities and the importance of addressing these issues head-on to foster a more inclusive society.
