International House at The University of Queensland will host the annual Peace and Understanding Lecture, presented by Australian Race Discrimination Commissioner Dr Tim Soutphommasane, on Tuesday (17 September).
International House Director Dr Carla Tromans said the College was proud to welcome Dr Soutphommasane, as the successful blending of cultures and the dispelling of racist attitudes was a fundamental principle of the College.
鈥淚nternational House is a residential college for Australian and International students and facilitates the development of wise leaders in the international community,鈥� she said.
Dr Soutphommasane said attitudes did not change overnight or through compulsion.
鈥淚t requires talking about and questioning people鈥檚 behavior,鈥� he said.
鈥淚t can be a daunting process to start that first conversation with family, friends and colleagues; to get them to see racism from another perspective.
鈥淏ut social progress was never meant to be easy.鈥�
International House resident Patrick Darling said student resident leaders would participate in a session to discuss practical methods to ensure they were at the forefront of a more harmonious Australia.
鈥淲e have 50 per cent international and 50 per cent Australian students living and learning at International House,鈥� he said.
鈥淓veryone is unique and has a story to tell and a role to play in the improvement and development of the global community. 鈥�
The International House Peace and Understanding Lecture is a free public event.
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Media: International House Foundation Ltd Development Manager Laura Stokes, 0406 267 636.
