*End Mandatory Detention!
*No to Temporary Visas!
*Full protection and rights for refugees now!
THE SPEAKOUT WILL BEGIN IN THE BOURKE ST MALL. THEN WE WILL MARCH TO DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION OFFICES, CASSELDON PLACE (CORNER LONSDALE AND SPRING ST)
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This speakout and march has been called to protest the escalating attacks by the Australian government on the rights of refugees.
The recent protests, hunger strikes and riots inside Villawood, Christmas Island, Curtin and Broadmeadow's detention centres reveal the incredible desperation, anger and hopelessness that pervade these centres which detain a record number of refugees. Over 6,000 refugees, including 1000 children now languish in these hell-holes.
Instead of moving towards a humane response, the government has stepped up its punishment of refugees who have the courage to resist their treatment.
We oppose the government’s decision to transfer 22 refugees from Villawood to Silverwood Correctional Centre, a high security prison where they have been held in solitary confinement. We also oppose the government's push to reintroduce Temporary Protection Visa’s as punishment for refugees who protest inside the camps.
It is the government who are acting criminally. We proudly stand with the refugees and call for their release into the community with full protection and rights immediately.