An Australian study by philosophy Professor Andrew Markus finds that 40% of migrants from non-English speaking backgrounds have been subject to racism. This is an increase of 19% from six years a go. The groups who reported highest level of abuse include: people from Malaysia (45%), India and Sri Lanka (42%), Singapore (41%), Indonesia (39%), and China and Hong Kong (39%). The national average for experiences of racism was 12%.
While a high proportion of migrants take pride on the Australian way of life (87%), the proportion of migrants feeling a strong affinity to Australian identity has dropped by 10% to 65%. Not surprising, given the rise in racial discrimination. Trust in individuals and Government were relatively low, with less than half the participants reporting civic trust, although a similar proportion of people contribute to civic participation through volunteering. Still 84% of all the participants believe multiculturalism is important.
The report raises important policy issues, such as the need to address discrimination through strong anti-racism strategies, and a stronger focus on increasing civic trust and participation.
Read the study (free PDF).
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