An Indian-origin leader in Melbourne has criticized what she called politicians’ silence on racism targeting Indian Australians, saying the issue is about dignity, safety and equal respect.Roshina Campbell, Melbourne’s deputy mayor and Liberal Party politician, said there was a distinct difference in how different communities were treated when faced with abuse.“When other communities are targeted, we see politicians criticizing it,” she said in an interview with Australia Today. “Why is it that when Indian Australians face racism there is silence among politicians? I am appalled by the racist comments targeted at the Indian Australian community.
We can only overcome this hatred by standing with Indian Australians. Every politician must see this hatred and racism for what it is. And it’s not just about acting.
It is about dignity, safety and the right of every community to feel valued and respected. It is the responsibility of all of us as Australians to respond to racism.
Campbell made the remarks in an interview, where she stressed that racism against Indian Australians should not be ignored or treated differently.
She said political leaders have a responsibility to consistently respond when any community is targeted, and said unity is key to tackling hate.Campbell currently serves as Deputy Mayor of Melbourne and is also a member of the Liberal Party. She previously ran for federal elections and has a background as an attorney.She comes from an immigrant family of Indian origin, and has often spoken about representation and inclusion in Australian public life. Her comments add to ongoing debates about racism, multiculturalism and political responses to discrimination in Australia.She said that the responsibility to confront racism does not lie with just one group, but rather with society as a whole.
