@cosmosgrove wrote:
Rabbit I agree that we should all be treated equally and pay the same price for the same crimes, same benefits, opportunities etc. But until our aboriginal population are treated equally this is not possible.
When an aboriginal person can apply for a job, a rental property, entry into nightclubs/pubs or even motel accomadation without being judged firstly by the colour of their skin then we may be on the path to equality. If you believe these things aren't a daily occurence for aboriginals you are living with your head in the sand.
No, I am not naive. I know these things happen - but, I know it also happens for any number of other prejudices too.
At our local shopping centre it seems that they have a fairly tolerant nature. There are Aboriginals, Indians and Pakistanies working there. Admitedly only on the menial type jobs, but it's a start isn't it? I admire them for having a go. I go out of my way to say 'hello' - sometimes they smile and respond, other times not, but I am aware that everyone can have a bad day and not feel like talking so I take no notice if they ignore me.
The thing is, can my going out of my way to say 'hello' be actually racist? I don't make such an effort with the so called white workers.
I am all for the underdog (and please don't take that as derogatory) who makes an effort and that includes anyone with disabilities as well as anyone who may have experienced racial or sexual descrimination and anyone who goes that extra mile to make a go of something whether it be menial work, or art or music or whatever.
By the way, my Doctor, by choice is very dark skinned - I think he is from Nigeria - it doesn't matter to me so I have never asked where he is from. He has trained and become a doctor despite all the hurdles he may have faced - I admire that.
