28 October 2005
Face the Facts - countering myths about refugees, migrants and Indigenous people
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner and Race Discrimination Commissioner Tom Calma launched a new publication today titled Face the Facts - which provides factual, easy-to-read information about refugees and asylum seekers, migration and multiculturalism and Indigenous people.
"In the current environment of fear and insecurity, it is more important than ever that our multicultural values of mutual tolerance, social equity and respect for cultural and religious diversity are maintained," Mr Calma said.
"Increased hostility towards Arab and Muslim Australians in the current international and domestic political climate shows the real need for facts, not myths.
"The newly-updated version of Face the Facts aims to provide clear and accurate information to counter myths and stereotypes that often surrounds debate on these issues."
The publication was first released in 1997 and is one of the Commission's most popular resources. It is used by teachers and students as an education resource, and by members of parliament, journalists and community groups.
The NSW Fire Brigades (NSWFB) has used Face the Facts in a practical and successful way through their Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD) Program, which provides cultural awareness training for local fire station staff.
"The Cultural and Linguistic Diversity (CALD) Program is designed to increase education, safety and confidence in culturally diverse communities across NSW, with the overall aim of reducing both the frequency and severity of fires ," said NSWFB Commissioner Greg Mullins.
"Over the past 18 months, the NSWFB has distributed over 1000 copies of Face the Facts both internally and externally. Key statistics, charts and easy-to-read information make Face the Facts an integral part of the NSWFB CALD program."
The Face the Facts booklet is a summary of the online version which provides more detailed information and further reading sources to thoroughly explore specific topics. It is available at www.humanrights.gov.au/racial_discrimination/face_facts/
To accompany this, the Commission has prepared a special Face the Facts education resource as part of its Information for Teachers series. The activities link with a range of key learning areas for junior and senior high school students across all states and territories.
Face the Facts print and web versions and the teaching resources are being launched as part of the 30 th anniversary of the Racial Discrimination Act.
Media Contact: Paul Oliver on 02 9284 9880 or 0408 469 347.
Last updated 28 October 2005.
