Dear Leslie,
The Towke story has triggered me, especially the part about his mum going to hospital after The Daily Telegraph destroyed his reputation.
I’m also a Christian who is regularly accused of being Muslim in my workplace. It hurts and now I’m back to worrying that one day a similar misunderstanding will come for me and shame my family.
Sad in Sydney
Hi Sad,
I’m sorry to hear about your stress. I’m not sure how long the Michael Towke story will run, but until you’re feeling calmer, I’d suggest taking time out from the coverage. It’s a story about events that happened in the past, so you won’t miss anything and can catch up — if you want — later.
It must be hard to feel that if your workplace believes you adhere to a particular faith that you’ll be targeted. No one should have to feel that, even if the facts of the matter — were they understood — would keep you safe. Surely you’ve considered the fear felt by others who are actually Muslim in what sounds like a toxic space.
Perhaps all of you could organise a confidential chat with the Australian Human Rights Commission? While discrimination on the basis of religion is not unlawful under federal anti-discrimination law, there may be other rights you do have that could provide relief.
Importantly, the commission is in your hands. If, after a discussion, you decide not to take matters further, the discussion would remain confidential. But at least it would give you the assurance that your concerns are entirely legitimate and the thrust of anti-discrimination law — if not the particulars — is on your side.
Take care of yourself,
Leslie
Dear Leslie,
Some friends of ours have been flooded and now they’re wondering if it’s time to give up on the coast and move to Sydney. I don’t know what to say. They’ve been through so much. Can I really say, don’t bother — this is climate change. You may as well stay close to friends and family, because nowhere you can run in Australia is far enough.
Friend-to-the-Flooded
Hi Friend,
Gosh, that’s confronting! But OK, having girded my loins, here’s my advice.
You’re right that the science tells us that Australia will be among the worst places in the world to be as the impact of climate change intensifies. The fires, the floods, the droughts — all are things that we’ve seen and will continue to see, but worse and more often, as the planet warms.
Five places have been named as refuges for those fleeing the disaster, and Sydney isn’t one of them. The list includes Tasmania, New Zealand, Iceland, the United Kingdom and Ireland as potential havens of the future. For those of us with Australian passports, only Tasmania and possibly New Zealand are possible. Gulp.
Given this, I don’t think you should keep quiet if, as you suggest, they’ve asked for your advice. Instead, I’d tell them you’ll miss them but that if they plan to move, Tasmania may be their best bet to avoid a repeat of the trauma they’ve just been through. And that I might see them there.
Leslie
In Everyday Dilemmas, Dr Leslie Cannold uses her ethical training to help solve your problems. Send your questions to letters@crikey.com.au with “Dear Leslie” in the subject line. She might even reply…
