Darwin's raging success

BY ROBERT MILNE

DARWIN -- Around 350 people “raged against racism” here on March 25, and raised $1880 for Green Left Weekly in the process. The event was the fifth Rage against Racism in Darwin and the largest so far.

The night got off to a great start with a performance by well-known local Shelly Morris, followed by Larrakeyah singer and regular Rage supporter June Mills (Darwin is on Larrakeyah traditional land). Mills was supported by family members, including the pint-sized dance troupe, the Petty Crimes.

A drumming group, Susu, revved up the crowd, which was then entertained by more top local bands including Neo, Screaming Brendas (their final performance) and the Toe-Sucking Cowgirls. In between acts, All-round Steve blew into his unique amplified didgeridoo.

The night focussed on mandatory sentencing, refugee rights and racial discrimination. Mills spoke out against racism and mandatory sentencing and I spoke in defence of refugee rights. Ciaron O'Reilly of the Ploughshares project, recently released from prison where he served time for “crimes” against the Jabiluka uranium mine, spoke about depleted uranium and the effects this poison is having on the people of Iraq.

The Rage against Racism, which is held at an outdoor venue, has developed a reputation in Darwin for having great bands and “good vibes”. Consistent support from local artists has built the Rage into a Darwin tradition. Rick, from the Screaming Brendas, even delayed an overseas trip to play for us.

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