Ruddock picketed

Issue 

BY BONNY CAMPBELL

SYDNEY — On May 7, about 80 protesters converged outside the Immigration and Population Conference at the Australian Technology Park in Redfern where immigration minister Philip Ruddock was due to speak.

Fortunately for Ruddock the "ordinary people" outside couldn't afford the $220 per head needed to participate in the conference. Instead they staged a counter-conference, at which people shared their disgust over Ruddock's denial of refugees' rights.

Unlike those heading into the "real" conference, the protesters represented a broad range of concerned citizens. As well as refugee action groups, the protest was attended by members of the Democrats, Children Out of Detention (ChilOut), Democratic Socialist Party members and the North Sydney Refugee Support Group.

Speaking at the rally, civil rights campaigner Tim Anderson reminded the crowd that if "anti-terror" legislation currently before the Senate is passed, this diverse group of refugee activists could be labelled terrorists.

Activists were urged to protest at every public appearance that Ruddock dares to make.

On May 11, a "Dress against Detention" rally was held outside Ruddock's office.

The next big refugees' rights protest will be on June 23, coinciding with World Refugee Week. Meet at Circular Quay at 11am to march to Hyde Park.

From Green Left Weekly, May 15, 2002.
Visit the Green Left Weekly home page.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.