In doing so, Aftab Malik, Australia’s inaugural Islamophobia envoy, has made a courageous move. He delivered an incredibly detailed report with 54 recommendations to address the longstanding and growing problem of Islamophobia in the country. This important brief represents one more call for us to redouble our efforts to end discrimination based on religion. It’s arrival comes at a pivotal time when social cohesion and inclusivity are of increasing importance. The report’s foreword was authored by Usman Khawaja, a notable Australian Muslim cricketer who has long advocated for better understanding and acceptance of cultural diversity.
Malik’s report emphasizes the need for urgent reforms to counter-terrorism laws, and calls for increased security funding for Islamic institutions. It further calls for grants for community arts projects aimed at building social cohesion and tackling Islamophobia. That’s the message from U.S. special envoy for climate change, former Secretary of State John Kerry. They are key to advancing a harmonious life together in Australia, regardless of one’s beliefs.
Recommendations to Combat Islamophobia
One of the main recommendations listed in the report is a need to reevaluate currently enacted counter-terrorism laws. Malik contends that these laws disproportionately harm Muslim communities and should be subjected to independent oversight to determine the effects they’re having. We’re with him that these inquiries are important. They work to make sure that counter-terrorism measures don’t further discriminate or stigmatize Muslims.
For Malik, the attack underscores the immediate need for greater security resources at Islamic institutions. These communities have experienced a growing wave of hate crimes in recent years. To that, he’d add increasing safety at these locations. This upgrade will produce a more welcoming place of worship and public space for every worshipper and community member.
One of the report’s most ambitious and eye-catching recommendations is to use social cohesion to realize the aims of the community and artistic grants. Malik advocates for funding to be directed towards programs that promote appreciation and respect among different cultural communities. He knows firsthand that art can transcend borders and divisions. Community projects create an incredible sense of togetherness.
“They are not punitive; they seek to work with people, respect free speech and engender coming to know Muslims better, rather than placing penalties and monitoring people’s actions and words.” – Usman Khawaja
Addressing Educational Gaps
Malik’s report calls attention to the role education can play in countering Islamophobia. On a policy level he calls for Australian school curricula to better reflect the diverse and long-standing history and culture of Australian Islamic communities. By incorporating Islamic perspectives into educational materials, the report argues that students can develop a better understanding of cultural diversity from an early age.
Beyond the education reforms, Malik is calling for simultaneous investigations into the state of Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism. Together, this twin focus addresses the discrimination that Muslims are subject to. It aims to address the broader causes of racial discrimination in Australia. A different inquiry will look into anti-Palestinian and anti-Arab racism. This inquiry will particularly focus on the latest wars, including the war in Gaza.
“The reality is that Islamophobia in Australia has been persistent, at times ignored and at other times denied, but never fully addressed.” – Aftab Malik
A Call for Unity
In a joint statement welcoming Malik’s review, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said it was vital to foster social unity in an increasingly divided world. He expressed optimism that Australia could serve as a model for harmonious coexistence, stating, “At a time when there’s conflict in the world, I really see that Australia can be a microcosm of what we want the world to be, a place where people live side-by-side in harmony.”
Dr. Nora Amath of the Islamophobia Register Australia echoed this sentiment, describing Malik’s report as “a much-needed step towards addressing the pressing issue of Islamophobia in Australia.” Now, community leaders and advocates are imploring for the federal government to act urgently. They strongly feel that we need to take the lead in pushing back against Islamophobia, just as we fight all racism and prejudice.
The report illustrates the continued Islamophobic attitudes and hate incidents Australian Muslims face today. This is hardly a new problem, as we’ve witnessed since the September 11, 2001 attacks. Malik sheds much-needed light on the very specific challenges Muslim women must grapple with under hijabs. These women experience extreme violence and abuse simply due to their religious markers.
“They have had their hijabs pulled and ripped off. They have been subjected to foul, disgusting and degrading behaviour.” – Aftab Malik
