Action updates

Vigil for refugees 1

NEWCASTLE — A chilly night here on July 5 did not prevent 30 people from gathering in Civic Park for a vigil in support of the refugees on hunger strike in the Woomera detention centre.

Dave McKay and Cherry from the Woomera Refugee Embassy provided an update on the situation in Woomera. A tent embassy in solidarity with refugees was set up on the corner of King and Darby streets. A solidarity fast and rally was called for July 8.

Vigil for refugees 2

BRISBANE — Thirty people gathered outside the offices of the immigration department on July 4 to express solidarity with the refugees on hunger strike at the Woomera detention centre.

The protest gained support from passers-by, who signed petitions calling for the immediate closure of all refugee detention centres.

Marcel Cameron from the Refugee Action Collective (RAC) explained to the lunchtime audience that the protest was part of a growing nation-wide movement in support of refugees' rights.

Martin Hirst from RAC spoke of the barbaric conditions faced by asylum seekers in the detention centres, and the need for action to demand their release from detention.

From Green Left Weekly, July 10, 2002.

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From GLW issue 499