By Anne O'Callaghan
PERTH — An unprecedented election initiative here seems certain to make waves in the December 14 state elections. A well-known Aboriginal activist is joining forces with an activist from the Asian Australian community to stand in the upper house South Metropolitan Area under the banner of "Racism No!".
Yaluritja (Clarrie Isaacs) is a high-profile campaigner for Aboriginal rights and a trade union activist. Yaluritja aims to use the election campaign to raise the need for land rights and funding for health and education and to draw attention to campaigns he is involved in such as against redevelopment of the Swan Brewery. He told Green Left Weekly, "This country's white history was founded on the suffering and death of Aborigines. We have to acknowledge this in fighting for a more balanced and just society."
The second candidate, Arun Pradhan, is the WA representative of Asian Australians against Further Intimidation, Perth Resistance organiser and a member of the Democratic Socialist Party. "This is the first time that an Aboriginal and Asian have combined in elections to raise a strong voice against racism", Pradhan told Green Left Weekly.
The Racism No platform covers Aboriginal and migrant rights, human rights in this region and a program for full employment, among other issues.
Pradhan explained that the Racism No campaign would be a great tool in building the campaign against systematic and institutionalised racism, although its goals were more ambitious. "We are running to win in these elections", Pradhan told Green Left Weekly. "Not because we think that racism will be solved by people voting it away, but if we win we will use our profile and resources to fuel a mass campaign against racism — rather than fuelling ignorance, hatred and inequality, which seems to be the focus of most elected officials."
Despite the short election campaign, both candidates were confident of the support they would receive. Pradhan commented, "There are already a range of people involved in the ticket, and we welcome everyone's ideas and help in what could be a historic campaign". To be involved in the Racism No campaign, call (09) 362 5540 or 227 7367.