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Spotlight on Racism

Young People

Claire Dodds

Claire Dodds

What do you do?

I'm an Admin Officer in the Aboriginal Education and Training Directorate which is within the NSW Department of Education. I am also studying Community Management by correspondence through Macquarie University.

How old are you?

22

Where were you born?

Wollongong

Where did you grow up?

Wollongong, Gloucester and Sydney

Describe your cultural/religious/ethnic family background

My mother is Aboriginal and my father is Aussie.

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

No. but hopefully I will one day.

What is your favourite place in the world and why?

I haven't been out of Australia, but I'm pretty happy and relaxed when I'm somewhere by the sea..

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

Yes I have been exposed to racism on numerous occasions, but not necessarily directed towards myself.
It makes me angry, and mostly confused that some people think it is acceptable.

What did you do about it?

It's hard to change people's opinions, but I always voice my own.

What advice would you give kids experiencing racism?

If you experience racism don't think it's acceptable, don't put up with it and just remember racism stems
from ignorance and fear of things that are different.

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

I would like to see an Australia where culture of all kinds and especially Indigenous Australian culture
is recognised and celebrated.