AAAC’s March Forum Unites Voices for Racial Justice and Inclusion
The African Australian Advocacy Centre (AAAC) marked March with a powerful online event commemorating both the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination and Harmony Day. Held on 21 March, the event brought together a distinguished panel of national and international speakers, activists, Federal Politicians, academics, and community members to reflect on Harmony Day and International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
The session opened with AAAC Founder and Executive Director Noel Zihabamwe, who offered a compelling overview of AAAC’s decade-long work addressing systemic racism, racial profiling, and the persistent underfunding of grassroots African Australian organisations. He highlighted the growing needs of African Australian communities and the urgency of sustained support and structural change.
Federal Member of Parliament Jillian Hill reiterated the Australian Government’s commitment to eliminating racial discrimination, spotlighting newly announced funding to support African Australian organisations working on the frontlines of inclusion and community development.
The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Giridharan Sivaraman, Race Discrimination Commissioner at the Australian Human Rights Commission. He discussed the National Anti-Racism Framework, emphasizing the need to improve racial literacy and promote active anti-racist practices in every sphere of society.
The event also featured Professor Bina D’Costa, Chair Rapporteur of the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent and Professor at the Australian National University. She provided a global human rights perspective and offered insights into the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, encouraging local engagement with global efforts to advance racial equity.
Associate Professor David Mickler, Dean Global, Africa at Curtin University, explored Australia-Africa relations, particularly in education, commerce, and diplomacy. He emphasized the role of academic institutions in community capacity-building and forging meaningful connections with African communities in Australia.
AAAC’s Senior Research and Policy Advisor, Associate Professor Kathomi Gatwiri, presented findings from the We Belong Here report, calling for a formal government response. She introduced her recent research on dignity and intersectionality as essential frameworks for addressing the unique challenges facing African Australians. Her closing call for participants to strive to be “great ancestors,” like Mandela and Tutu, left a lasting impression.
The event was deeply moved by the testimony of Manana Johnson, AAAC Coordinator in Western Australia. She shared her powerful lived experience as the granddaughter of one of the victims of the 1960 Sharpeville Massacre in South Africa. Her story reflected both intergenerational trauma and the enduring courage of those who fought for human rights. Manana also shared her inspiring grassroots work in WA, supporting youth in the justice system and their families.
The AAAC extends heartfelt thanks to all attendees, presenters, and community leaders who contributed to this transformative event. As we reflect on March’s theme of harmony, AAAC reaffirms its dedication to building a fair, inclusive, and anti-racist Australia where everyone, regardless of race, religion, gender, or background, can thrive.
To learn more or get involved with AAAC, please visit our website and join the movement for justice and equity.
