Len Falk Lecture - Gippsland Region

Julian Burnside with Doreen Falk, widow of Len Falk, First Regional Director of Education for Gippsland

Julian Burnside, Kate Durham (R) and Vivane Scott (L) wife of the President, Gippsland Group ACE, Shaumus Scott

Julian Burnside giving the 2009 Len Falk Memorial Lecture at Morwell Friday 16th October

MEDIA RELEASE - People Like Us Have Human Rights Too

Human rights are an issue for everyone in Australia.  Our laws as they stand do not provide secure human and just rights for all. We protect ourselves and everyone when we work for laws that give security for others - the People Like Us - who have no protection.

Julian Burnside Q.C., A.O. issued a challenge to the large group of nearly 90 who gathered to hear him speak on the need for better protection for our human rights.  Mr Burnside was giving the 27^th Len Falk Memorial Lecture at The Waratah Restaurant, Morwell on Friday evening 16^th October for the Gippsland Group of the Australian College of Educators.

Julian noted that recent High Court decisions meant that under Australian law at the moment no one is protected from arbitrary arrest, the lack of habeas corpus or long term imprisonment without trial. 

He argued that an Australian Bill of Rights is needed to protect everyone.  He also argued that the old "Them" and "Us" argument is no longer appropriate.  Empathy is now what is needed for us to understand what others are going through when their human rights are withdrawn.

The point he stressed, however, was that people have rights because they are humans and that we all have them.  They are not just for the wealthy or the politically powerful.  We all have the same power of our human rights.

Julian Burnside weaved stories with policies, jokes with trauma and calls for direct action with moments of what he wanted everyone to share - empathy.  The questions and comments from the audience including a table of union members were involved in the human rights issues in Gippsland

Before he left a group from the Latrobe City were treated to a private conversation with Julian where he was impressed by their commitment to the Community Accord.

Julian and his wife were presented with local Koorie artefacts and local wines in appreciation of his skilful presentation.

For further information

Keith Brownbill, Secretary, Gippsland Group of ACE

ph. 5134 2676

email: keithjbr@hotmail.com

Prepared by Graham Scott. 5127 4013.