Refugees' campaign builds in Rockhampton
ROCKHAMPTON — Forty people gathered on February 15 to greet the Freedom Bus that has been visiting refugee detention centres across Australia. The meeting also launched the Rockhampton Rural Australians for Refugees group.
The night was a great success. The Freedom Bus participants shared their experiences, and the discussion dispelled some of the myths about asylum seekers, including: that all boat arrivals are illegal immigrants; that the problem is caused by “people smuggling” and that mandatory detention is necessary.
Most meeting participants came informed and eager to do something to defend the refugees. Since the experiences of the Freedom Bus activists dominated the meeting — providing more ammunition against the government's policies — it was decided to discuss plans for action at the next RAR meeting on February 22. For more information phone Brett on (07) 4927 0355.
Bands to blast Ruddock
NEWCASTLE — Newcastle bands are set to give immigration minister Philip Ruddock an earful at the Rock against Ruddock organised by Resistance at the Palais Royale at 5pm on February 23.
Newcastle bands, such as Creeping Jesus, Mouse Moon, Conation, Cabin Fever, The Rodgers and Favours For Each Other are donating their time to raise funds and awareness for the campaign to free the refugees.
All proceeds for the night are going to help fund Green Left Weekly's coverage of the refugee campaign and for Resistance's ongoing refugee work.
The Palais Royale is a drug and alcohol-free venue for young people and is proud to support community events like the Rock Against Ruddock.
Tickets are $7 or $5 concession, with a $1 discount for pre-sold tickets. For information, or to book tickets, ring (02) 4926 5328.
NARR organises
NEWCASTLE — Newcastle Action for Refugee Rights (NARR) launched itself by organising a successful contingent of Novocastrians to attend the February 12 protest for refugee rights that was held in Canberra.
NARR's February 14 meeting was well-attended, reflecting the media attention the group received around the February 12 action.
“We've been desperately looking for the other 15% [of Australian residents who oppose mandatory detention]”, one new member said at the meeting.
RANN will hold a public meeting on February 23 to hear from the activists involved in the Freedom Bus which has been visiting refugee detention centres around Australia. For more information about NARR activities, phone Peter on 4968 1281.
From Green Left Weekly, February 20, 2002.
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