Disturbing trend of racism in Dandenong: report
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A report from the Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission says Dandenong's Sudanese community is experiencing a disturbing amount of racism.
And young people suffer the most.
Sudanese immigrant Louise Gabriele says racial abuse at school is commonplace.
"They like bully us and say oh black people shouldn't be in Australia, go back where you came from. They push us," she said.
Her story is typical of 200 people interviewed for the report, according to Dr Helen Szoke, the head of the Human Rights Commission.
"It's really worrying that relatively new groups of arrivals to Victoria are experiencing such high levels of racism."
The report found discrimination in public, at schools and even at the hands of police is at worrying levels.
Since the bashing death of 19-year-old Liep Goni in 2006, Victoria Police and the Sudanese community have made efforts to bridge cultural divides.
However, Dr Berhan Ahmed, a refugee advocate, believes many Anglo Australians fail to see beyond the prevailing differences.
"Dark and tall and that makes them visible and more identifiable," he said.
Since 1996, more than 8,000 Sudanese have migrated to Victoria, more than any other African country.
With this in mind the commission has drafted 37 separate recommendations into what it describes as a sensitive and complex issue.
Dr Szoke says one thing everyone needs is a good start.
"Really good education to get them going, really good access to justice and housing and all the things we take for granted," she said.
Louise Gabriele says putting an end to racism will help her realise her dream.
"It would help me achieve my dreams and become a nurse hopefully," she said.
The commission will meet in the New Year to try to find a solution.
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