Responding to racism
The way race and racism are talked about in Australia has been shaped by the ongoing impacts of British colonisation, since it began in 1788. This has led to structural and systemic racism across the continent, including intersectional forms of discrimination, which are deeply rooted in myths and misconceptions.
These myths and misconceptions often prevent us from having meaningful conversations about race or addressing racism. Awareness and understanding of these concepts better equip us in conversations about race and racism and support the development of our personal anti-racism practice and skillset.
What do we mean by ‘myth’?
A widely held but false belief or idea.
What do we mean by ‘misconception’?
A belief or idea that is incorrect because it is based on faulty thinking or understanding.
A myth is inconsistent with widely supported research whereas a misconception is incorrectly inferred from other information
We are grateful for the following contributions:
- The guide was developed with advice and editorial input from IndigenousX, a 100% owned and operated media, consultancy and training organisation
- Fantastic illustrations by Desirai Saunders, who works on Meanjin country alongside her family and community to preserve and celebrate Aboriginal culture. Desirai is known for her culturally strong and independent women and non-binary characters
- Resource design by Saltwater People, an Indigenous-owned, full service creative agency and social enterprise.