For Immediate Release – 21 March 2025
Collaborative Efforts for Inclusivity
CORE Community Services, in collaboration with Western Sydney Community Forum (WSCF), Western Sydney University, and the Diplomacy Training Program, proudly hosted the Breaking Barriers and Building Belonging Symposium. This event served as an important platform to address the continuing realities of racial discrimination and to look beyond symbolic celebrations of unity.
50 Years of the Racial Discrimination Act
Since its introduction in 1975, the Racial Discrimination Act has played a vital role in ensuring equal treatment for all individuals—regardless of race, colour, national or ethnic origin. It stood as a landmark achievement for Australia’s commitment to human rights and social cohesion.
Fifty years later, despite notable progress, speakers acknowledged that racism persists in both overt and subtle ways. The symposium emphasised the continued need for collective action to dismantle discrimination across all its forms.
Shifting the Narrative: From Celebration to Critical Dialogue
The symposium challenged the traditional narrative of racial harmony by shifting the focus from celebration to meaningful discussion. Panellists shared firsthand experiences and explored the complexities of race, identity, and belonging in contemporary Australia.
Keynote Insights from Professor Azadeh Dastyari
Keynote speaker Professor Azadeh Dastyari highlighted a shared goal among all attendees—to eliminate racial discrimination. She emphasised that participants have the power to influence change through unity and collaboration, noting that while progress has been made, significant work remains.
Addressing Everyday Racism
Shama Pande, Multicultural Communities Manager at CORE Community Services, called attention to subtle and systemic racism, stating:
“Racism often has an undertone—subtle digs, passive remarks, and the ‘othering’ of migrants and refugees. It’s these everyday experiences that shape exclusion and inequality.”
A Shared Commitment to Change
The event strengthened the collective commitment of partners and attendees to eradicate racial discrimination—an ambitious yet attainable goal through advocacy, policy reform, and education.
CORE Community Services continues to support multicultural communities in Western Sydney by advocating for racial justice and building authentic social cohesion. The voices and lived experiences shared at the symposium will guide future initiatives and policy discussions.
Media Contact:
Jenny Liem
Marketing and Communications Officer
media@corecs.org.au
0472 864 445