It is obvious from reading our posts, that the anti-Asian racism issue in Australia is getting out of hand, and it appears as though it will just continue to get out of hand as the Australian Government pretends the issue doesn’t exist. Now we see this racism pile over into Australian TV. Now, this is definitely not a “new thing”, as the racism against Asians on Australian TV have been happening for decades at both a casual and systematic issue. But, alas, we still need to talk about this.
The reality TV series “Gogglebox” which focuses on Australians reactions watching various television programs has recorded an incident of racism. In its recent series, contestants Tim and Leanne who are of Asian Australian background, have come out publicly talking about the racist comments they have received over social media. Tim and Leanne are siblings and Tim shared over his social media about the hurt and trauma the racism he and his sister have received (via Who):
“Words are weapons,”
“We just received this message. This is the reason I now fully manage our IG and FB. This is why Leanne has quit social media.”
“How much hurt and trauma must someone have gone through for them to lash out at someone because of the colour of their skin, because of who they love, because of wanting to live their authentic self?”
It is sad reading things like this, and it again reinforces that being Asian in Australia – no matter how long we have been in the country, we are still perpetual foreigners. In saying this, Tim and Leanne are not alone on this, as Masterchef judge Melissa Leong has also has these experiences. Fellow judge Jack Zonfrillo made a public statement on how this racism is unacceptable (via Who):
“She’s my work wife, my sister, my mate, she drinks espresso like I do, she is able to express and articulate a damn sight better than you can clearly and that is just the beginning Graham.”
“She’s a woman whose origin happens to be different than yours, but why does that make you so afraid?”
“I feel sorry for you that you cannot see past the colour of someone’s skin or actually the fact they are just different than your white a** in any way. Graham, please get educated and be a better human. You owe it to yourself and everyone around you who are most probably too embarrassed by the s**t you say to let you know.”
There are definitely more stories like this, and we will be highlighting them as it comes to light!
Images via Who
To read the original article, please click on: Gogglebox’s Tim and Leanne respond to racism