‘Go Back to Where You Came From’: Mehreen Faruqi Slams Politicians and Media for Fueling Racism
Mehreen Faruqi Warns Racism Is Being Normalised in Australia
Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi has delivered a powerful speech in the Senate, warning that racism in Australia is no longer confined to the fringes but is being “legitimised” and “normalised” by both the media and mainstream politicians.
The senator moved a motion for debate on social cohesion after a weekend of anti-immigration rallies, which she said should serve as a “wake-up call” for the country.
Faruqi: Far Right Is ‘On the Move’
Faruqi said the rise of the far right has been emboldened by politicians who downplay racism and media outlets that give space to discriminatory narratives.
“The far right is emboldened. They are on the move. Racism has been legitimised and normalised by the media and by politicians,” she told the Senate.
The senator added that the rallies highlighted the growing threat of organised far-right movements, particularly those targeting migrants, people of colour, and religious minorities.
Personal Toll: ‘Go Back to Where You Came From’
In one of the most striking moments of her speech, Faruqi read out excerpts from the abusive and violent letters she says she receives on a weekly basis.
She said these messages reflect the hostile environment migrants continue to face in Australia:
“Migrants like me have been told repeatedly to put up, shut up or go back to where I come from.”
By sharing her own experience, Faruqi underscored the very real consequences of political rhetoric that she argues stokes fear and division.
A Call for Political Leadership
Faruqi accused some politicians of either ignoring or actively fuelling racist sentiment for political gain.
She argued that instead of dog-whistling to xenophobic attitudes, leaders should be focusing on strengthening social cohesion and creating a more inclusive society.
The senator called on the government and opposition to take responsibility, saying that failing to challenge racism only emboldens extremists.
Why This Matters
Australia has long grappled with questions of identity, multiculturalism, and immigration policy. Faruqi’s speech shines a light on how these issues are playing out today, as extremist movements grow louder and political discourse sharpens.
Her warning points to a broader question for the nation:
- Will leaders confront the rise of racism head-on, or continue to allow it to fester on the fringes until it spills into the mainstream?
Final Word
Mehreen Faruqi’s speech wasn’t just about abusive letters or fringe rallies—it was a call to recognise how racism can spread when powerful voices give it cover. By linking her personal experiences to broader social issues, she challenged both parliament and the media to reflect on their role in shaping the national conversation.
For Faruqi, the message is clear: racism is not just alive in Australia—it’s being normalised. And that, she says, should alarm us all.