Brad Chilcott has won an award for his organisation Welcome to Australia, which welcomes new arrivals, refugees and migrants. Source: adelaidenow
BRAD CHILCOTT wants to change Australia's conversation about asylum seekers.
The Activate Church Bowden pastor says instead of vilifying refugees we should welcome them with open arms.
"There is a real contradiction inherent in our national psyche," Mr Chilcott says.
"We constantly celebrate diversity at times like Australia Day and Harmony Day.
"Our leaders talk about how wonderful and multicultural Australia is, but they also vilify minorities."
Mr Chilcott's organisation, Welcome to Australia, has been running for two years, providing services such as mentoring and seminars for new arrivals.
It also stages "welcome parties", where clubs and schools invite migrants to informal community gatherings.
At the Governor's Multicultural Awards, presented on February 19, Mr Chilcott received a community sector award for his work founding the organisation. He says being recognised for making a difference is rewarding, and he hopes more people will get to know refugees, as he has.
"It's so inspiring meeting new Australians and hearing their stories," he says.
"Why wouldn't we want to welcome such resourceful and resilient people?
"I want my children to grow up in a community where everyone feels they belong and we're not divided by fear and suspicion ... and where everyone is recognised as equally deserving of human dignity and respect."
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