AAI Responds to Senator Dave Sharma’s Remarks
admin@aai.supportDate: 9 December 2024
The Alliance Against Islamophobia (AAI) strongly condemns recent remarks by Mr. Dave Sharma dismissing Islamophobia as a fabricated issue.
These comments disregard the lived experiences of Australian Muslims and threaten the values of inclusion and unity at the core of our multicultural society. Research highlights the widespread impact of Islamophobia.
A 2021 Australian Human Rights Commission survey found that over 80% of Australian Muslims have faced discrimination based on their faith. Internationally, the United Nations reported an alarming increase in harassment and violence against Muslims in a statement dated 15 March 2024.
Domestically, the Islamophobia Register of Australia reported in July 2024 a staggering 1300% rise in Islamophobic incidents since October 2023, as noted by Executive Director Dr. Nora Amath. These figures underscore the growing challenges faced by the Muslim community.
On one hand, the Prime Minister refers to an anti-Semitic act of vandalism as an act of “terrorism,” while on the other, we have public figures dismissing similar attacks against Muslims as mere fabrications.
This glaring double standard is deeply troubling and reflects an inconsistency in addressing religious intolerance.
Such a disparity in responses not only undermines the Muslim community’s experiences but also perpetuates a narrative that some forms of bigotry warrant immediate condemnation while others are trivialised or ignored.
Denying the existence of Islamophobia is not only harmful but also dismissive of the systemic discrimination experienced by many.
Such rhetoric denies Muslims their humanity, dehumanises them, risks further discrimination and perpetuates marginalisation of Muslim communities. It may also breach Australian laws against religious vilification and discrimination.
Public figures have a responsibility to promote inclusion and social cohesion. Dismissive statements erode trust, alienate vulnerable communities, and undermine efforts to build a harmonious society.
AAI calls on Mr. Sharma to retract his remarks and engage meaningfully with Australian Muslim communities to better understand the realities of Islamophobia.
Furthermore, we urge all leaders to uphold a consistent and fair approach to addressing all forms of religious intolerance.
It is essential to ensure that Australian Muslims are afforded the same respect, protection, and recognition as any other community facing discrimination.
The Alliance Against Islamophobia remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting those impacted by Islamophobia and working toward a society where dignity, respect, and equality are upheld for all.
Alliance Against Islamophobia
