The Queensland African Community Council (QACC) has unveiled the findings of a three-year study highlighting the pervasive racism faced by African students, bicultural workers, and parents within Queensland’s school system. The report, launched recently, revealed deeply concerning trends, with every student surveyed identifying racism as a significant issue in their educational experience.
Beny Bol, Chair of Queensland African communities Council at the report launch (Photo Linked in)
According to the study, African students in Queensland schools experience systemic racism throughout their educational journey. The report highlighted instances of bullying, teachers downplaying or ignoring complaints, and students being told that certain subjects were not appropriate for them. Some students faced disproportionate disciplinary actions or, in some cases, direct racist behavior from teachers.
The impact of this structural racism extends beyond students. African parents reported feeling disregarded, often stereotyped as aggressive or assumed to be suffering from trauma due to their refugee backgrounds. These issues contribute to a breakdown in trust between families and the education system, further perpetuating the cycle of disadvantage.
The report includes several actionable recommendations for schools and education departments to tackle this issue. These findings reinforce the need for education to be a key focus of the National Anti-Racism Framework, calling for state governments and education departments to take swift, decisive action in response to the recommendations.
The report’s launch was attended by key figures in the African-Australian community, including Beny Bol OAM, who praised the effort to highlight this important issue. Gratitude was also extended to Denis Jato for his dedication to the project and Masimba Sasa for providing photography for the event.
The QACC report serves as a powerful call to action, urging policymakers and educators to confront the entrenched racism within Queensland’s schools and create a more inclusive, equitable education system for all.
