Next thing you know there’ll be a mosque…
Ugh. It was bad enough learning this week that Camden Council had rejected a planned Muslim school in their community and then claimed that it was solely zoning issues – not racism – that motivated the decision. But now to see this idiotic woman parading her ignorance and prejudice in front of the world’s media? I hope the council members are rightly embarrassed for themselves and their constituents. I’ve already run into the stereotype that Australia is somehow more racist than other countries – most notably over on MetaFilter – and people like this aren’t doing our image any favours.
Rose Red
May 31, 2008 — 12:43 pm
Gah! The people shown in the media coverage (and the council’s decision) made me ashamed to be Australian (if that’s what they think it is to be Australian).
Will Graham
May 31, 2008 — 8:52 pm
If it truly isn’t a zoning issue, can’t they appeal or take it to court?
Kris
May 31, 2008 — 10:34 pm
Based on what I saw on the news, it looks like that’s what happening. The Quranic Society have hired a lawyer who is famous for taking on these cases. He was interviewed and says that he’s confident he’ll win.
Will Graham
June 1, 2008 — 5:45 am
It will take longer, but if they win then the council will be exposed.
Rachel
June 1, 2008 — 1:48 pm
It’s just horrible. If you were building this school, would you think twice about building there now because the neighbours are, to quote Kevin Rudd, “revolting”?
Kris
June 2, 2008 — 10:11 am
Awesome. Did you see the paper this morning? A direct descendant of the Macarthurs wrote a letter denouncing that bogan woman’s statement that “The Macarthurs will be proud of us.” Good on her.
Bex
June 2, 2008 — 10:23 am
*shudder*. I hope if the school goes ahead, there’s no trouble…
Kris
June 2, 2008 — 12:02 pm
I think they’ve already had incidents of pig heads being left on the property. On one hand I could understand if the Society would rather not deal with the threat of violence. But on the other hand, I really hope they put their foot down and refuse to be terrorised.
Emily
June 3, 2008 — 12:57 pm
I thought it was Camden in London, till I read the links, Kris. Pleased it wasn’t (not that it couldn’t have been in the UK), and hope the school wins out.