Understanding racism
Racism is the result of a complex interplay of individual attitudes, social values and institutional practices. It may be expressed in the actions of individuals and institutions and takes a range of forms.
Cyber racism
Cyber racism is most commonly defined as racism which occurs in the cyber world. This includes racism which occurs on the internet on racist websites, blogs and social media or in text messages or emails. It includes content such as racist comments, images, video or language.
Legislation & policies
All Australian laws impose some responsibility on schools and individuals, to take steps to prevent and combat racism. These laws are aimed at protecting individuals from racism and to protect those individuals who make complaints about racism.
Hate speech
Hate speech is speech, writing, behaviour, text or commentary, that attacks or uses pejorative or discriminatory language towards a person or a group on the basis of identity.
Teaching resources
The resources contained in this section have been developed to support the delivery of anti-racism education in the classroom. Included are lesson ideas, activities and stimulus materials which assist students to engage positively with other peoples and cultures and to better understand Australia’s cultural diversity and history.
Culture and diversity
Australia has a unique history that has shaped the diversity of its peoples, their cultures and lifestyles today. Recognising and being responsive to the cultural diversity of school communities helps to support equitable learning outcomes.
I would like to put my name and voice behind trying to eliminate racism once and for all. I would like future generations to experience a world without hate and discrimination.
Samantha
QLD 4551We have the basic right to feel safe, there is no place for racism in a civilized society…time for every one of us in Australia to reflect and respect….
Adele
WA 6147I pledge to eliminate racism by teaching the students at St Thomas More Catholic Primary about the cultures of First Australians, encouraging them to become more inclusive and demonstrate respect to all within our community.
Kristie
WA 6281We want a world where racism does not exist. This starts with the education of children. This includes education about bystanders and their ability to stop racism in its tracks when they see or hear it.
Robert
NSW 2607I pledge to fight against racism in case. Racism is illegal. I will stop racism as far as I can go. There are those people who deserve respect so that is my deepest belief no more racism.
Layla
NSW 2119I’ve always promised not to stand by racism, so here is my pledge. Racism is not okay, full stop. I shouldn’t matter what colour we are, where we came from or what nationality we are.
Winter
SA 5253I will try my best to look out for other people who are being bullied or discriminated against. I will not judge people on their race, beliefs, culture and will try to make harmony with everyone.
Taylia
NSW 2070I pledge my support to uphold the goals and principles of anti-racism education and make this pledge part of my ongoing commitment to honour truth telling and reconciliation.
Jan
WA 6069I hereby pledge my support for the goal and principles of anti-racism education and will work towards eliminating racism from St John’s School and society as a whole.
Katherine
WA 6014I Talei Simpson pledge my FULL support for the goal and principles of anti-racism education and will work towards eliminating racism from our schools and society as a whole.
Talei
NSW 2223I promise to speak up about injustices I see and to have the courage to stand up for what is right, even when it makes me feel uncomfortable.
Lilia
We all need to be kind, respect diversity, respect differences, and walk in love. The world would be a better place.
Chrissy
WA 6100Racism is simply an irrational prejudice, a product of ignorance and fear. I believe no-one is born hating another person because of that person is different from you. I pledge to stop racism.
Mandy
QLD 4069I hereby pledge my support for the goal and principles of anti-racism education and will work towards eliminating racism from our schools and society as a whole.