By Nikki Ulasowski
CANBERRA — At the unveiling of the "national Christmas tree" here on December 3, activists chanted "No to the racist 10-point plan" throughout PM John Howard's speech. A red-faced Howard persisted, even though he was drowned out.
Democratic Socialist candidate for Molonglo, Sue Bull, told Green Left Weekly: "During Howard's speech, he spoke of goodwill and peace. This is incredibly hypocritical given the racist bill that is being debated and voted on in the Senate, not to mention all of the cuts and attacks made by his government, which have badly damaged many ordinary people's lives."
Following the protests in the Senate public gallery on November 25, the disturbances continued throughout debate on the Wik bill, with cheering, booing and clapping.
On December 4, an emergency vigil was called by Campaign Against Racism and Australians For Native Title and Reconciliation. Around 200 people heard speakers outside Parliament House, including Aboriginal activists Matilda House, Graham King, Yaluritja and Lois O'Donoghue, as well the Democratic Socialists' Sue Bull, ANTaR's Alison Aggarwal, Tanya McConvell from the International Socialists and Liam Hazell from CAR.
CAR is organising a rally to defend native title and stop the Jabiluka uranium mine on December 13 at noon, in City Walk, Civic. The action is also to support the rights of migrants and East Timorese refugees against the government's attacks. For more information phone 6247 2424.