The Alliance Against Islamophobia (AAI) emerged from a profound sense of urgency and pain in response to a relentless wave of anti-Muslim hate speech and severe contempt faced by Australian Muslims, particularly those from the subcontinent.
Far-right Hindu extremist groups in Australia were gaining ground, spreading venomous rhetoric through social media, online forums, and public discourse. This rising tide of hatred fostered an environment of fear and insecurity for many Muslims, leaving them feeling alienated and under siege in their own country.
In this climate of growing hostility, community leaders, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens could no longer stand idly by. They came together, driven by a shared commitment to justice and compassion, to form the Alliance Against Islamophobia.
AAI’s resolve and grassroots mobilisation against far-right Hindu extremist hate were poignantly demonstrated during the Melbourne protest against Tejasvi Surya on 4 June 2022, held at The Thornbury Theatre.
The event saw hundreds gather in defiance of hatred. The solidarity extended beyond the Muslim community. The Sikh community, represented by the Fateh Foundation, stood shoulder to shoulder with their Muslim brothers and sisters, emphasising the strength of unity across faith lines.
Prominent figures like Janet Rice from the Greens, Jeremy Small from The Social Alliance, and Nick Reimer from the National Tertiary Education Union became vocal advocates, amplifying the voices of those who had been marginalised.
The Islamic Council of Victoria (ICV), Australian National Imams Council (ANIC), and Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (AFIC) were among the first to join, along with over 20 Muslim student associations and more than 50 global academics.
The media coverage by The Age and The Guardian brought the stories of those affected to the forefront, shedding light on the personal toll of Islamophobia and the community’s unwavering commitment to protecting Australia’s multicultural ethos.
The protest was a testament to the emotional weight and significance of AAI’s mission. With banners held high and voices raised in solidarity, participants sent a powerful message: hate has no place in Australia.
AAI quickly became a beacon of hope, drawing support from all corners of society.
AAI continues their fight to counter anti-Muslim hate speech from far-right Hindu extremist groups by raising public awareness about the threats these groups pose to Australian society and social cohesion.
They also use research-driven policy, and political and legal strategies to combat anti-Muslim hate speech.
AAI’s work is a testament to the power of data-driven advocacy, solidarity, grassroots mobilisation, and an unwavering belief in a just and inclusive society.
Through their continued efforts, AAI remains a beacon of hope, drawing support from all corners of society to combat hate and promote social cohesion.
