Tamil People's God Ravana cannot be burned during Diwali

Introduction:

We, the Australian Tamil Associations Collective, are coming together to seek justice and protection for our communities.

This is a collective effort by Tamil organisations across Australia to challenge acts of profound cultural disrespect planned for Diwali celebrations at Blacktown City Council in New South Wales, City of Whittlesea in Victoria, and the Mount Gravatt Showgrounds in Queensland.

During these events, a public effigy burning of Ravanaa - revered ancestral deity for caste-oppressed Hindus and Tamils - is scheduled to take place.

Why This Fight Matters?

Ravana holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for caste-oppressed Hindus and Tamils. This act is not simply a display; it’s a public humiliation of our communities and a reinforcement of caste-based discrimination.

For countless individuals, this portrayal of Ravana as an object of contempt signifies an attack on our heritage, our beliefs, and our dignity. It’s a harsh reminder of the oppression and alienation caste-oppressed communities have endured for generations.

By endorsing these events, Blacktown City Council, City of Whittlesea, and Mount Gravatt Showgrounds are contributing to an environment that normalises violence against our communities, fostering a message that Tamil and caste-oppressed people are inferior and unworthy of respect. These public spectacles violate the principles of inclusivity, equality, and respect that are supposed to underpin Australia’s multicultural identity.

Our Goal: $5,000 for Legal Action and Awareness:

The Australian Tamil Associations Collective is taking action against the Councils that have allowed these egregious displays to go forward.

We are pursuing legal avenues under relevant state and federal legislation to demand an end to these acts of religious vilification.

To make this possible, we are raising $5,000 to cover initial legal fees and to fund public awareness campaigns.

Our goal is to not only seek a cease-and-desist order but also demand a public apology, cultural sensitivity training for the event organisers, and compensation for the harm inflicted on our communities.

How Your Support Can Make a Difference?

Our community needs your solidarity. Your donation will directly support the legal fees, court costs, and advocacy efforts necessary to protect caste-oppressed Hindus and Tamils from this symbolic act of violence.

Together, we can take a stand against all forms of hate and discrimination, ensuring that all cultural identities in Australia are treated with the respect they deserve.

Please Donate and Share

Your contribution, no matter the size, sends a powerful message that Australia will not tolerate displays of hate. Share this campaign, raise awareness, and help us demand justice.

With your support, we can protect the rights and dignity of caste-oppressed communities in Australia, advocating for a society that truly values equality, inclusivity, and respect for all cultural identities.

Thank You for Standing with Us:

The Australian Tamil Associations Collective is deeply grateful for your support.

Together, we can challenge these acts of public vilification and work toward a future where no community feels marginalised or disrespected. Thank you for joining us in this vital fight for justice and respect.