MEDIA RELEASE | 14 November 2024
Trumpesque scapegoating of migrants is a dangerous election tactic
National racial justice organisation, Democracy in Colour, has condemned the recent anti-migrant push from senior coalition figures as a disingenuous election tactic designed to shift blame and inflame division. This is a divisive tactic in a country where our social and economic fabric relies on migration and the majority of people are from migrant families.
Democracy in Colour Campaigner, Jarrod Tan says:
“Migration has been essential to this country’s economic and social success for decades. Recent comments from Bridget McKenzie and Opposition Leader Dutton have made it clear that the coalition hopes to win the upcoming federal election by creating division via misleading Trumpesque anti-migrant rhetoric.
“Our communities are bracing for another wave of increased racism and discrimination that inevitably occurs when politicians decide to scapegoat migrants for their electoral gain. This latest round of scapegoating is an opportunistic and transparent attempt to import divisive US politics into Australia.
“At a time when social cohesion is a serious concern and we are observing increasing public displays by extreme far-right groups, these political tactics have a direct impact on those of us who are visibly from a migrant background and experience increased instances of racism and discrimination.
“Rather than take action on housing rorts like the capital gains tax concession and negative gearing that have been driving up prices for decades, politicians are giddy at the prospect of getting elected via the divisive Trump playbook. This is a desperate attempt to blame anyone but themselves for the housing and cost of living crises.
“It’s frustrating that those in a position to introduce policies that could create a better society, economy and life for everyone decide to play political games at the expense of our communities. In a country where the majority of people are themselves, or born to migrants, this is a dangerous and dishonest tactic. Politics in this country can and should be better than this” he said.
MEDIA CONTACT: Jarrod Tan 0455 200 905
