In Australia, racism is commonly considered to be abuse directed toward Indigenous people by those who are non-indigenous. Is abuse of non-indigenous persons by those who are indigenous also considered to be racist?

Response:

In Australia, racism is generally understood as discriminatory behavior or attitudes directed against a person or group based on their race or ethnicity. This includes not only the abuse directed at Indigenous people by non-Indigenous people but also scenarios where non-Indigenous individuals may experience abuse from Indigenous individuals.

The definition of racism encompasses both acts of discrimination and prejudice regardless of the direction. Therefore, if Indigenous people exhibit abusive or discriminatory behavior towards non-Indigenous individuals based on their racial or ethnic identity, it can also be considered a form of racism.

However, discussions about racism in Australia often focus on the historical and systemic inequalities that Indigenous people have faced due to colonialism and ongoing discrimination. This context is essential in understanding the complexities of racism, power dynamics, and social justice in Australia. While all forms of racism should be recognized and addressed, the consequences and historical backdrop of Indigenous experiences may shape how these issues are publicly perceived and discussed.

In summary, yes, abuse of non-Indigenous persons by Indigenous individuals can be considered racist, but the broader conversation about racism in Australia usually emphasizes the legacy and impact of injustices faced by Indigenous communities.

I was born in Australia.

I am white.

The abuse directed at me was a quite lengthy tirade offered at full volume and liberally laced with expletives.

It was very disconcerting and very bad, indeed quite frightening, or my wife who is in hospital.

The staff shifted her bed to another section of the ward, which helped in lifting her feelings of security.

I have lodged a complaint with the Royal Darwin Hospital and am not inclined to just let this awful incident go through to the keeper.