multicultural Hot Words

Vilification...

Definition

Vilification is a public act that could encourage or incite other people to hate, have serious contempt for, or severely ridicule an individual or group due to criteria such as their nationality, race, ethnic origin, colour, religion or sexual preference.

Vilification applies to all forms of expression such as graffiti, speeches, remarks, printed comments, harrassment, abuse, gestures, posters and wearing badges and clothing with slogans.

The Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments of Australia all have anti-discrimination laws which aim to ensure that everyone can live a dignified and peaceful existence free from vilification.

The Commonwealth Government anti-discrimination body is called the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission.

The New South Wales Government anti-discrimination body is called the Anti-Discrimination Board of NSW.

What makes it hot?

Some people think that anti-vilification laws are a form of political correctness and stifle free speech. This argument suggests that, by prohibiting racial and religious vilification, the legislation limits valuable debate and prevents people from making true and important statements because they may be vilifying.

Freedom of speech is immeasurably important, and it continually needs to be balanced to ensure that everyone can live a dignified and peaceful existence free from vilification.

Date Added:

26 November 2004