2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat. My article below appeared on The Wire (India). A shorter version appeared on Pearls and Irritations. Last September when Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was in Bali for the G20 Summit, he tweeted, “So wonderful to see my friend @narendramodi, Prime Minister of India.” Modi returned the compliment and confirmed that Albanese … Continue reading Human rights are a shared concern – why Albanese must be an ‘honest’ friend to Modi
Solidarity with Kashmir – is US in talks with Modi to build a military base in Ladakh, Kashmir?
At Granville, a Western Sydney suburb, on Kashmir Black Day, October 27, Lee Rhiannon spoke about the ongoing crimes of the Indian military and the Modi forces against the residents of Indian Occupied Kashmir. Her speech covered the growing speculation that the USA government wants to secure land in Ladakh, in Kashmir, in order to … Continue reading Solidarity with Kashmir – is US in talks with Modi to build a military base in Ladakh, Kashmir?
Modi’s India gets a free pass on Human Rights – but not China!
The people of Jammu-Kashmir are at a critical juncture in their struggle for justice. Despite the fact that they live in the most militarised region on earth, experience shocking human rights abuses, and have been given a genocide warning by Genocide Watch, few Western countries have acted. It’s time for the Australian government to speak … Continue reading Modi’s India gets a free pass on Human Rights – but not China!
SYDNEY RALLY International Day of Victims of Enforced Disappearances August 30 - International Day of Victims of Enforced Disappearances. In Sydney we rallied together - First Nations, Bangladeshis, Rohingyas, Kashmiris, West Papuans, Tamils, Sikhs, Kurds and local supporters - to send a united call to the Australian government to be a leading global voice for … Continue reading
Islamophobia – where hate speech can lead to death
I wrote this article a few months back for the Autumn edition of GreenMail, a quarterly Greens NSW publication. The issue of hate speech and violence is now even more topical. Tejasvi Surya, a politician with the extremist Bharatiya Janata Party, recently toured Australia. He was on a speaking tour and to recruit for the … Continue reading Islamophobia – where hate speech can lead to death
Immigrant Women’s Speakout Association – celebrate 40 years of achievements
I was asked to speak at the 40th anniversary of the Immigrant Women's Speakout Association, a courageous organisation that empowers migrant and refugee women to achieve gender equality in all areas of their lives. Speakout’s equitable and democratic structure is the basis of its longevity. It is with deep appreciation that I join you for … Continue reading Immigrant Women’s Speakout Association – celebrate 40 years of achievements
Kashmir Solidarity Day – exposing Modi’s crimes of genocide vital in struggle for self-determination
I spoke at a number of events to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day. It is heartening to see that awareness of the Kashmiri struggle is growing. These are my notes on some of the issues I raised at these events. This function to mark Kashmir Solidarity Day is part of a global movement for Kashmiri self … Continue reading Kashmir Solidarity Day – exposing Modi’s crimes of genocide vital in struggle for self-determination
India’s Republic Day should not be another BJP propaganda occasion – call grows to release Delhi 18 gaoled for defending Constitution
26 January 2022 This article was published in The Wire India. By Lee Rhiannon India’s Republic Day, with all its pomp and celebratory zeal, should be an occasion to also highlight the plight of the Delhi 18, the group of young students and activists, many of whom are in jail for staging protests against the Narendra … Continue reading India’s Republic Day should not be another BJP propaganda occasion – call grows to release Delhi 18 gaoled for defending Constitution
Flotilla to Gaza successful court case over illegal Israeli activity – inspiring Australian link
Ten years ago the global campaign to end the illegal blockade of Gaza took a dramatic turn when the Israeli forces stole urgently needed medical supplies. A lengthy court battle and the courageous actions of the Freedom Flotilla Gaza have won some justice. Palestinian activists, former Greens MP Sylvia Hale (left of banner) and Vivienne … Continue reading Flotilla to Gaza successful court case over illegal Israeli activity – inspiring Australian link
How and why Modi forces are using Indian laws to criminalise peaceful activities
A global webinar on “Criminalization Of Peaceful Expressions”, organised in parallel with the 48th session of United Nations Human Rights Commission, explored Indian laws and practices that aim to outlaw peaceful activities and demonstrate how these laws are inconsistent with India’s international legal obligations. This event was organised by the Kashmir Institute of International Relations … Continue reading How and why Modi forces are using Indian laws to criminalise peaceful activities