Labor, Liberal get M1 'awards'

BY JAMES CAULFIELD

CANBERRA — The Liberal Party received a "Racists of the Year" award from 150 protesters on May 1, during the M1 rally and justice tour. Awards were presented by a "neo-liberal grim reaper" to several companies and organisations throughout the day.

The rally demanded rights for refugees, Palestinians and workers. Speakers included ACT Trades and Labour Council secretary Jeremy Pyner, and Democratic Socialist Party activist James Vassilopoulos.

Tania McConville from the Refugee Action Committee pointed out that: "Australasian Correctional Management is making millions of dollars out of the misery of those behind the razor wire".

The march made plenty of noise, particularly a very red Resistance contingent, complete with drums, red head-bands and flags.

Outside the office of Labor parliamentarian Bob McMullin, Labor for Refugees member Nick Martin spoke out against the ALP's anti-refugee policies. Loud applause followed the ALP's award for it's fabulous impersonation of the Liberals.

The rally concluded with a condemnation of Israel's genocidal war against the Palestinians.

From Green Left Weekly, May 8, 2002.

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From GLW issue 491