BY VANNESSA HEARMAN
MELBOURNE To respond to the increasing activities of the misogynist Blackshirts, the Diversity and Safety Community Network was formed on August 7 at a meeting of 25 local residents and activists in Brunswick.
The Blackshirts in Victoria are led by businessman John Abbott, who has been quoted as saying that he had "no problem" with fascism.
The meeting was initiated by a household located not far from Abbott's Brunswick recording studio. Two members of the household applied for an intervention order against Abbott, alleging that he had criticised their sexuality and child-rearing methods, promising that the Blackshirts would "pay [them] a visit".
In fear for their safety, the residents had contacted local police and then leafleted the local area to discuss a community response. The meeting resolved to organise a community safety network which can respond immediately should attacks by the Blackshirts occur. The network will also raise awareness about the activities of such groups in the local area and tackle social issues leading to the formation of groups like the Blackshirts.
Depending on resources, the network might attempt to work together with other community groups concerned about the activities of the Blackshirts.
A public meeting will be organised with a range of speakers to highlight issues such as women and children's right to live in safety, and to affirm support for a tolerant and diverse community in Brunswick which has a high migrant population.
The next meeting of the Diversity and Safety Community (DISC) Network is on August 21 at 7pm at the Solidarity Salon, 580 Sydney Rd, Brunswick.
From Green Left Weekly, August 21, 2002.
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