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Racist bullying is when a person is verbally, physically, or emotionally bullied either in person or on-line because of the colour of their skin or because they are from another nationality or speak a different language.

Examples of racist bullying include:

  • Making offensive comments about the person’s nationality or the cultural group to which they belong.
  • Making jokes about the person’s accent, how they speak or dress.
  • Implying the person is not Australian.
  • Refusing to be friendly or co-operate with them because of their differences.

Racist bullying can have a big impact on the person who is being bullied because it makes them feel ashamed and embarrassed for being different as well as feeling rejected and unsafe.

One of the reasons for this is that racist words and behaviour are experienced as attacks on the values, loyalties and commitments central the person’s sense of identity and self-worth.

You can be the difference!

Remember, everyone has a different experience being Australian.

Respect and learn about the different cultural groups and nationalities that are around you.  

Think before you act or speak:

  • Is this kind or helpful?
  • Will my actions or words put someone else down?
  • Am I trying to make myself feel good or important in front of my friends?
  • Even if I do think something is funny will other people agree?

Be an upstander not a bystander.

Speaking out against racist bullying can feel scary, but if it is safe to do so, step in and tell the person who is doing the bullying their behaviour is not okay and they should stop.

Remember, comment on the person’s behaviour not them, for example, say “that was a mean or unkind thing to say” rather than “you are mean”.

Respect difference.  Be the difference.