Brisbane students plan walkout
By Emma Tovell and Sarah Cunningham
BRISBANE — Angry high school students and Resistance members have joined to organise a mass high school walkout, protesting against racism and the growth of Pauline Hanson's One Nation party. The walkout and rally will take place on Tuesday, July 28, coinciding with Queensland One Nation members taking their seats in state parliament for the first time.
One Nation policies include:
- an English speaking test for all immigrants — a return to the white Australia policy;
- repealing the Racial Discrimination Act and present gun laws;
- compulsory national service for all 18-year-olds.
These policies pose a significant threat to the future of youth. The walkout has been organised to show that although high school students may be too young to vote, we do have strong, anti-racist political views.
Resistance member and Toowong High student David Lafferty said, "We're organising to voice our opposition to Hanson's racist populism. We know there are huge social problems facing youth, but none of them will be solved by the simplistic, racist and harmful policies of One Nation. We want to build an anti-racist movement which presents real solutions."
Students in the Brisbane area will rally in King George Square at noon, then march to meet Aboriginal community protesters outside Parliament House at 1pm. To get involved, phone 3254 0565.