The creative sector is a powerful force in shaping national conversations. But are we doing enough?
In recent months, we have witnessed disturbing displays of anti-immigration and white nationalism, the vile targeting of Indian and Asian/Asian Australian communities, Islamophobic attacks, and the assault on Camp Sovereignty in Melbourne. These are painful reminders that racism in Australia is not only alive but rising.
We acknowledge the work of First Nations and racially marginalised artists and cultural workers, small-to-medium organisations, and allies who consistently call out racism and build communities of resistance and care. We honour their labour, and as a peak body for racial equity in the arts, we commit to carrying this work forward by resourcing, amplifying, and holding institutions to account.
Racism is not only visible on our streets, it is embedded in our institutions. We must dismantle these structures and build creative spaces grounded in justice, cultural safety and belonging.
We call on the broader creative ecosystem, from our largest institutions to independent artists, to join us in this fight. Much is already being done, but far more is required. This is not optional: it is the work that must be done.
We stand in solidarity with all who have been harmed in recent months, especially our Indian-Australian, Muslim, and First Nations colleagues, and we reaffirm our commitment to building a future where racism has no place in our sector or on our streets.