Stay Safe: Why Some Are Locking Down This Weekend

Concerns are rising as immigrants in Australia are urged to stay safe over upcoming protests advocating for an end to “mass immigration.”

Community leaders, particularly from Indian backgrounds, have been vocal in their advice to immigrants living in Australia. They are recommending that people “stay inside” during these events for their safety.

What’s Happening This Weekend?

Groups across Australia are preparing to participate in the often contentious ‘March For Australia’ on Sunday. The focus of these protests is to voice opposition to what the organisers describe as “mass migration” and to advocate for a reclamation of Australia’s identity.

While details remain scant, the protesters have made it clear that they do not want any foreign flags at the event. Instead, they are calling for a “sea of red and blue,” asking participants to carry Australian ensigns and Eureka flags.

Safety Concerns for Immigrants

In light of these events, many community influencers have taken to social media to address their followers’ concerns. Mandeep Singh, an influencer with over 30,000 Instagram followers, posed the question of safety for those who might be out and about during the protests. He suggested that such gatherings could be dangerous and urged caution.

Likewise, Yash Mittra, with around 127,000 followers, echoed similar thoughts in Hindi, advising individuals to remain indoors on the protest date. His caption, “Australia’s anti-immigrant protest is dangerous,” shared a sense of urgency about the situation.

A TikTok content creator, Straw Hat Mimi, also implored people of diverse backgrounds, especially Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC), to consider staying home if possible. She warned that such events could escalate into violence.

Community Responses and Statements

The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) recently issued a statement against the rally, asserting that targeting new arrivals or culturally diverse groups neglects Australia’s shared history. FECCA chair Peter Doukas emphasised the need to uphold our diversity, stating, “We can have different policy views but never let those discussions escalate into attacks on people’s identities or heritage.”

Minister for Home Affairs, Tony Burke, also spoke out against the protests, asserting that there is no place for division in Australia. He affirmed, “We stand with modern Australia against these rallies — nothing could be less Australian.”

Additionally, Dr Anne Aly, Minister for Multicultural Affairs, described multiculturalism as essential to Australia’s identity. She categorically rejected the notion that racism and ethnocentrism should hold any ground in modern Australia.

Implications for Job Seekers

For international job seekers, events like these can feel unsettling. While most people are focused on expressing their viewpoints, it’s important to think about personal safety and community acceptance, especially if you’re in the process of exploring employment opportunities or visa options, such as the 482 visa (Temporary Skill Shortage visa) or the 189 visa (Skilled Independent visa).

As you navigate this environment, understanding the community and cultural landscape is vital. The diversity of Australia is one of its greatest strengths, welcomed here for contributing to the job market and enriching society.

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