Ideas on how you can speak up against racism at work

Speaking up among work colleagues can feel uncomfortable.

1. Seize the moment. Respond in a way that makes the speaker's assumptions clear.
2. Discuss privately. Take the co-worker aside and gently explain what you find offensive.

   "You know, I don't feel comfortable when you make these generalisations about Aboriginal people."

3. Focus on the diversity of your colleagues.
4. Tie tolerance to better performance. Diverse, flexible and respectful workplaces are productive and have a smaller turnover of staff.
5. Refer to your workplace policies. Many workplaces have diversity policies and employee conduct codes. Refer to them if the need arises – not enough people use these documents.

Hints for speaking up to "Humourous" comments

It is unfortunate that in some instances a good laugh and a bit of humour in the office can turn sour when the speaker chooses to tell a 'joke' that is based on a racist stereotype.

1. Don't laugh. Meet the inappropriate joke with silence or a raised eyebrow. Use your body language to communicate your view on the matter.
2. Interrupt the laughter. Do not hesitate to interrupt the 'joke'. Explain how it feels prejudiced.

   "Why do you think that's funny?"

3. Set the limits. Letting people know that their behaviour is unacceptable will limit the spread of racist attitudes. You cannot control what other people say but you can set some boundaries. Just make sure that you follow through with them!

   "Don't tell racist jokes in my presence anymore. If you do that again I am going to leave." OR "This workspace is not a place I expect to hear these sorts of remarks to be made. I can't control what you say outside of this space, but here I ask that you respect other people."

4. Provide alternatives. Have a few jokes up your sleeve that don't rely on racial stereotypes or bias.

ANTaR would like to thank Tolerance.org for the ideas and materials they provide on their website, which has helped us compile the resources on this page.

SPEAK UP AGAINST RACISM | At Home | At Work | Among Friends | In the Media | About Governments

The Racism Makes Me Sick campaign is running in collaboration with The Body Shop, which is promoting the campaign from 21 April – 12 May 2008 as part of their commitment to defending human rights and promoting Reconciliation in Australia.