Rock Against Racism
BRISBANE — An impressive line-up of Brisbane bands swung their support behind a benefit to raise funds for the Anti-Racism Campaign on February 15. Around 300 people attended, with 100 more having to be turned away for lack of space.
Kev Carmody, who captivated the crowd with his political ballads of indigenous struggle, said, "The issue of racism is not up for debate; it is a continued struggle against the racist elements in society". Bloon, Escape from Toytown, Pop Properly and the Dream Poppies also performed, and Aboriginal activists George Saba and Dennis Bobongi spoke.
Event organiser Phil Monsour said, "The attendance reflects the ongoing support for the campaign. The next rally and march, in early April, will give the public another opportunity to show their opposition to racism."
Solidarity with Iranian oil workers
SYDNEY — Around 50 picketers protested at the Town Hall on February 21, as part of an international day of solidarity with Iranian oil workers struggling for the right to organise and a wage rise.
The solidarity actions — held in Europe, Japan, Canada, the US and Australia — followed a government attack on an oil workers' peaceful assembly in Tehran on February 16. Solidarity activists have called for protest messages and faxes to be sent to the Consulate of the Islamic Republic of Iran, 25 Culgoa Crescent, O'Malley, ACT. Fax (06) 290 2431.
Hobart IWD
HOBART — The International Women's Day collective here has decided on a rally theme of "Women unite to defend our rights — oppose the Liberals' attacks". It was felt that the day should focus on basic issues of women's liberation such as free education, reproductive rights, workplace justice and public child-care.
The collective also decided to make it clear on the poster for the rally that the support and involvement of men was welcomed.