Cultural and linguistic diversity
Issues
Different languages and cultures are part of Australia's multicultural society and need to be incorporated in mutually beneficial ways. The cultures of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders are a rich and important part of this Australian heritage.
'Race' is a social idea used to maintain group boundaries and position some people as 'other', inferior to or excluded from the dominant culture that is regarded as 'normal'. There is a consensus among scientists that 'race' is not a valid biological concept, but the idea continues to be used with very negative consequences for individuals and groups.
Racism happens everywhere. It can be obvious (overt) or hidden (covert). It takes different forms, but always involves the misuse of power by individuals, groups and communities against each other.
Communities speak
"A couple of times other boys laugh because I don't
speak very good English. It upsets me and I am not able to think for
the rest of the day when it happens."
"For me, as an Indigenous student, a supportive
school environment means security of culture, security of identity, and shared
responsibility
amongst the school community.
The benefits are for me, for you,
for everyone."
"I came here from another school this year ... kids
here understand different people better. Teachers take it seriously if you
tell
them something has happened and it might have been
a joke in some other culture but it isn't in mine."
"We all talk to the kids on a personal level about
going to the mosque and about how their families live. Agencies also help
to work
with the kids. The best practice here is that the staff
make sure that all
of the students are well
integrated and are assisted with
language problems."
Challenges
All members of the school community – staff, students and carers – have the right to a safe and productive environment free from racism.
School communities need to:
- recognise the effect that racism as a form of violence has upon Indigenous students and students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
- use a critically reflective curriculum to examine and deconstruct long-held, deep-seated values and opinions
- develop alternative understandings and responses that challenge racist views
- build capacity for the full diversity of students, staff and carers to actively participate in democratic decision making and action to transform those features of the school, the community and the society that support racism and other forms of discrimination and disadvantage
- make a commitment to educate for a socially just and harmonious Australia.
Resources
-
Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy Support Materials: Challenging Racism
http://www.education.tas.gov.au/school/health/inclusive/
antidiscrimination/challenging_racism
Department of Education Tasmania.Professional development materials to address issues of beliefs, attitudes and discrimination. Provides background and history, definitions, documents to support discussion, questions and answers, sample student learning experiences and a list of resources.
- As a Matter of Fact: Answering the Myths and Misconceptions
about Indigenous Australians
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (1998)
Canberra: AGPSA 33 page booklet that identifies and responds to common statements and beliefs relating to Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders.
-
Migration Oz - An investigative resource kit for teachers
Australian Bureau of Immigration and Population (1993)
Canberra: Australian Bureau of Immigration and Population ResearchDesigned for cross-curriculum use, this kit includes a teacher's guide and resources for use with middle and upper secondary school students. The package addresses international population movement, the history of immigration to Australia, Australia's immigration program, the economics of immigration, and the social and demographic impacts of immigration. Contains source documents including cartoons, newspaper articles, interviews and government reports.
- Countering Racism
Department for Education and Children's Services (1997)
Adelaide: Department of Education and Children's ServicesA 37 minute video that examines the issue of racism in schools through real life accounts that identify racism and its impact. Includes provides practical ideas for a culturally inclusive curriculum and positive communication between diverse groups.
-
Face the Facts: Some Questions and Answers about Immigration, Refugees and Indigenous Affairs
http://www.humanrights.gov.au/racial_discrimination/
face_facts/index.html
Federal Race Discrimination Commissioner (2005)
Sydney: The CommissionInformation to counter myths and stereotypes about special treatment and other issues relating to migrants, immigration, multiculturalism, Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders. Available online. The webpage includes a glossary and teachers' notes for downloading.
Racism. No way! website
http://racismnoway.com.au
CESCEO (2000).
A comprehensive resource that assists teachers and students to address the challenges relating to racism. The website includes information to assist in recognising and addressing racism in schools; teaching strategies and opportunities for teachers and schools to share their approaches; and a large annotated bibliography on topics such as countering racism; cultural diversity and multiculturalism; migration and refugees; and stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination. Developed by Australia's government, independent and Catholic schooling sectors.
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