Two African communities in Tasmania have joined together to form a lobby
group to promote issues affecting refugees.
Initial support for refugees is strong, but many find it difficult to secure
accommodation and employment later.
The Liberian and Sierra Leone communities have formed a union to provide one
voice and it is hoped other African groups will do the same.
Sierra Leone community leader, John Nyagua says African communities need to
make sure they are heard by governments.
"I know the authorities are doing a lot for us and they have actually
provided a lot but people are still frustrated because they think most of these
issues have not been addressed," he said.
The Federal Government has awarded the University of Tasmania $125,000 to run
a program to build closer connections between refugees and the broader Tasmanian
community.
The Tasmanians Talking project is a joint initiative between the University,
local government and community groups.
The Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs, Laurie
Ferguson, says it will give people the chance to talk about their culture and
experiences, and to learn about life in Tasmania.
"People are scared of the unknown they are fearful of people different to
them its to get across the realities of these communities what they've been
through some of the issues that motivate them some of their background and
basically interact people together," he said.
African
refugees establish lobby group - ABC News (Australian Broadcasting
Corporation)
Related Items:
|
