Dear Neville —
Today I was handed a petition by the Refugee Action Coalition with an overwhelming 65,000 signatures calling for the immediate closure of Manus Island and Nauru detention camps.
This afternoon, I tabled these signatures in Parliament.
I want to thank all of you who took the time to put your name to this cause. Your opposition to these camps of cruelty has been recorded permanently in Hansard for future generations to see.
From the Forgotten Children Report compiled by the Human Rights Commissioner, and testimony provided at the current parliamentary inquiry into abuse claims on Nauru, we have learned of increasing cases of horrific child abuse, the mental and physical harm caused by prolonged detention and the depravity caused by inhumane living conditions.
We know it is morally wrong, costly, and severely damages Australia’s international reputation.
We cannot guarantee the safety of asylum seekers on Manus Island and Nauru, and the more we learn about the conditions of these camps, the more apparent it is that they are untenable and must be shut down.
By speaking out about Australia’s shameful actions, you have contributed towards a more hopeful future.
It’s time for the Government and all members of Parliament to take note and listen.
Thank you once again for signing this petition, we couldn’t have done this without your contribution.
Yours in hope,
Sarah Hanson-Young
http://www.sarahhansonyoung.com/ |
