Speaking up is all about challenging inaccurate or negative stereotypes about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

Tell your friends and family about your commitment to Indigenous rights

• If you're a bit worried about this, it might be easier to think about a good conversation starter, such as wearing a Sea of Hands or no racism badge. You don’t need to be an expert in Aboriginal culture and human rights issues to let people know it’s something you care about, although the more you know, the more confident you will feel.
• If you use online networks like Facebook, Myspace or Twitter, change your status to reflect your new commitment. People will start to see you as somebody who is interested an committed to Indigenous rights. Maybe something like "just read The Little Red Yellow Black book", or "just joined ANTaR" or "helping out on our local reconciliation group’s stall tomorrow".

Be proactive and persuade your workplace or organisation to get a Reconciliation Action Plan

• A RAP is a tool to help your organisation build positive relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

Respond to lies and inaccuracies you read or hear in the media -- these might come from people commenting on articles or events, or from the journalists themselves

• Commit to doing this by signing the pledge
• Read some tips on what you can say and how to approach a situation where you need to speak up
• Put a "racism-free" sticker on your blog or Facebook page so your online visitors understand that you do not tolerate racist comments in your online space

When have you had to speak up against racism?

Let us know when (and how) you've spoken up against racism by leaving a comment here: