UN-Working Group of Expert People of African Descent 2024 AAAC response @ City of Sydney Town Hall

My name is Waskam Emelda Davis and I am the first black woman and Councillor to be elected to the City of Sydney Council in it's 180 years of existence. As a Councillor for the City of Sydney my office facilitated the launch of the AAAC 2024 response to the United Nations 'Working Group of Experts for People of African Descent' Report at the Sydney Town Hall. My work on council has seen the City resolve...
a) Recognition and support Australian South Sea Islanders and the historical practice of Blackbirding which is derived from an Atlantic slave trade.
b) Strengthening commitments to address systemic and institutional racism across the workplace in the city of sydney.
c) Local Council Outreach Services for Seasonal Workers ... and this event hosted by my office to support the advancement of people of African descent in Australia and beyond.
The full program of guest speakers can be viewed here inclusive of myself in welcoming all to the Sydney Town Hall Mayoress Room.
• Noel Zihabamwe - founder and current chairperson of the African Australian Advocacy Centre.
• Dr Barbara Reynold Chair of United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent
• Professor Justine Nolan Director of the Australian Human Rights Institute
• Lorraine Finlay Australian Human Rights Commissioner.
• Professor Alphia Possami-Inesedy - Pro-Vice Chancellor Engagement and Advancement and Chair of WSU Social Justice Network
• Dr Sarah Williams an Academic Board member of the African Australian Advocacy Centre
• Matshepo H. Molala an Academic Board member of the African Australian Advocacy Centre
• Professor Kathomi Gatwiri - Senior Research and Policy Advisor
My office is the first Councillor office in the COS to be also staffed by people of First Nations, Pacific, and African descendant in representing our multicultural Australian lived experiences. It is crucial to promote a voice for African Australian diversity as they are part of our constituency and have made a significant contribution to our economy that has gone unnoticed. The promotion of such a voice is what this report launch aims to achieve. The AAAC was born out of ongoing consultation with African communities, with a clear vision to see Australians of African descent recognised as integral parts of our multicultural society. The recent visit of the WGEPD shed light on the urgent issues facing African Australians. From racial stratification and marginalisation leading to difficulties in assimilation and violations of human rights., the WGEPD's findings underscore the need for immediate action. It is imperative that we address these challenges head-on and work towards a society where every individual is valued and respected.