Close Libyan Slave Markets

The fact that in this world where there should be enough for all there are people fleeing starvation, conflict and persecution is appalling and an indictment on those who know better and do not do better. We all know of the tragic losses of lives as desperate people flee across the seas and the abuses of power by governments who do not abide by International Maritime Law and their obligations to rescue those in trouble at sea.

Then to discover that  some of those poor souls are captured and bought and sold as slaves in Libyan slave markets is yet another example of the horrific way that some people exploit the weak and vulnerable for their own ends. That governments stand by and let this happen, that people feel that it is okay to own a person, is horrifying and this should not be allowed to happen. If you would also like to act to close the Libyan Slave Markets you can click on this link.

With Courage Let us all Combine

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"The Refugee Council of Australia has chosen “With courage let us all combine” as the theme for Refugee Week in Australia for 2015 to 2017.

Taken from the second verse of the national anthem, the theme celebrates the courage of refugees and of people who speak out against persecution and injustice.

It serves as a call for unity and for positive action, encouraging Australians to improve our nation’s welcome for refugees and to acknowledge the skills and energy refugees bring to their new home".

The Refugee Council have chosen a particularly poignant verse from the Australian National Anthem to remind us all of the power of humanity, kindness, compassion, courage and diversity.
For more information you can click on this link.

End Their Suffering

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If you too would like to see an end to the suffering of those poor people trapped on Nauru and Manus Island then please join us and sign the petition too. If you want to learn more you can click on this link.

We stand together #WithRefugees.

We stand together #WithRefugees. If you would like to stand with them too you can sign the petition at this link.

We recently watched Bruce Springsteen live for the first time as we have been so impressed with the way that he speaks out on matters of injustice. He has been doing that whilst touring here and supports the message that Cate Blanchett and many others are sending in support of refugees. This message is also in protest of the recent Muslim Ban in the US that has caused so much pain and suffering.

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To watch the clip you can click on this link.

Appeal for Immediate Action on Offshore Detention

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Over seventy highly respected Australian organizations and community groups have sent this open statement calling for action on the deplorable situations on Manus Island and Nauru. Let us hope that there unceasing efforts on behalf of these refugees and asylum seekers is heard and that those who have the political power to assist and protect them finally see the light and act with compassion,  and love and for peace and justice. For more information you can click on this link.

No-one is Free when Others are Oppressed

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For us this sign embodies so much of what we believe, truly there is no real freedom for any of us whilst so many people in so many places for so many different reasons are oppressed. This gentleman is protesting at a US airport about the recent decision made to ban entry into the US based simply on the nationality of a person. For more information about this dreadfully hurtful and damaging decision you can click on this link.

In the US, Australia, and indeed all around the world there are actions, decisions, laws and legislation that are used to oppress others. No nation or place is free of such behaviors either now or in their past. I was fortunate to attend a very powerful and moving Healing Ceremony in Fremantle on Saturday. Whilst there were moments of incredible sadness and grief it was also incredibly uplifting to see so many people together determined to honour their ancestors and work towards a better future for all. For more information you can click on this link.

Amnesty International - Australia - Help Appeal

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We know how fortunate we are that we have never had to flee our homeland due to war or conflict and that this is not the case from many people around the world. We are so grateful that there are so many people/organizations around the world working hard every day to assist those who are fleeing in fear of their lives. If you would like to learn more and see if you can help then you can click on this link.

The 24-hour emergency hotline for Syrian refugees

The dreadful situations caused by wars around the world, and the desperate plight of the ordinary people trying to flee to safety, is shown in this video. As well as this, the courage and love for humanity that is demonstrated on a daily basis by Mohammed Abu Amar and his family is highlighted. Indeed the compassion, dedication, love and strength of all those who help others in trouble is always an inspiration in troubled times. We hope that one day no-one will need to flee their homes due to war and that we will all live in a world where peace and understanding reign for everyone. 

#Right Track - ASRC

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We are supporters of the ASRC and their support of better treatment of asylum seekers and refugees so our  youngest son has been on the phone this morning responding to their request for  showing support for them by calling/contacting MPs and Senators. For more information you can click on this link.

Maryam's Story

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