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Spotlight on Racism

Politicians and Public Figures

Mrs Carol Martin MLA

Carol Martin BA(SW) JP MLA First Indigenous woman to be elected to any Parliament in Australia

What do you do?

Member for Kimberley in the WA Legislative Assembly,
social worker, mother, grandmother, wife

How old are you?

I was born Carol Pilkington on 13 October, 1957. I am 48.

Where were you born?

Subiaco WA

Where did you grow up?

Perth, Carnavon and Muckinbudin

Describe your cultural/religious/ethnic family background

Mother's family Yamitji- Nanda
Father's family Noongyar
Believe everybody has a right to their own religion.
I have been married to Brian for 22 years and have a son, 19, a daughter 22, and 3 grandchildren.

Do you know any other languages? If so what are they?

English and some Creole

What is your favourite place in the world and why?

Happiest favourite place is in my own skin.
Another favourite place is Jarlmadangah Burra, 120 km south east of Derby.
Favourite places are on country where I'm welcomed as family.

Have you ever experienced or witnessed racism? How did it make you feel?

All my life, in all forms. A black woman is like a teabag. You throw us into hot water and we just get stronger.
I always remind myself of this statement "You can't be wrong if you're right, and you don't stop fighting for justice simply because those around you don't like it, you keep fighting."

What did you do about it?

I fight for equity, justice and recognition. Never let a racist jibe go by without a response. I do not accept bad behaviour and do not acknowledge bigotry as worthwhile to our society.

What advice would you give kids experiencing racism?

Racists are people who do not understand that the racism is their problem. Racism as it materialises is not about being a human being- it's about others being small minded with no understanding or care for other human beings. So, be honest, be proud, be strong, be decent, be caring and make a difference, no matter how small.

What kind of Australia would you like to see for our children?

The future is yours- we are only the caretakers of your future. Face it with hope, love and respect, that's the kind of Australia I'd like for our children.