Since the end of World War II people from all over the world have chosen to make a new and better life for themselves here, in our unique and beautiful part of southern Sydney.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, St George residents are less likely to move homes than other Australian. People tend to stay and build strong ties to the area, raising a family, starting a business or joining a local sporting club or community group. I have met residents who emigrated to St George 70 years ago and have never wanted to live anywhere else.
As a community we are tolerant and accepting as well as vibrant and diverse. And it is upsetting when someone tries to fracture the harmony we have created together.
Last month elected officials of Chinese heritage received a vile hate letter and death threat. Among them was Liberal Councillor Christina Wu of Georges River and Labor Councillor Kun Huang of Cumberland Council. Both sides of politics agree this behaviour has no place in our community.
Following this incident, the former Socceroos Captain Craig Foster AM visited St George to talk about a new campaign he is supporting to install signs with the message "#RacismNotWelcome" around our area.
The talk was organised by Hurstville Labor by President, Leon Pun and was attended by Councillor Kun Huang, (the recipient of the racist letter), as well as former Hurstville Councillors Clifton Wong and Dominic Sin.
I admire Craig Foster for what he achieved on the sporting field as well as his work promoting human rights and social justice issues. I would encourage both Georges River and Bayside Councils to look at this new campaign favourably.
