Media Releases
Reputation for generosity has been 'shattered'
December 2001
Australians need to do some soul-searching in light of the recent Federal
poll and such prominent election issues as the treatment of refugees and asylum-seekers,
Archbishop Francis Carroll says in his monthly letter to the people of the
Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.
"We have prided ourselves on being a generous and compassionate people, "he
says.
"In many parts of the world we have enjoyed that kind of reputation. Recent
statements and events, particularly in regard to asylum-seekers and refugees,
have shattered much of that reputation. Perhaps they should also shake our conviction
about ourselves."
In a pre-Christmas message, he challenged Catholics to consider if generosity
and compassion would mark their Christmas.
Archbishop Carroll said Australia had a right to control the number of people
who came into Australia and the way in which they came. Very few rights, however,
were absolute.
"...the rights of others, especially with basic human needs, must also be
recognised. I have the right to say who comes into my home and eats at my table,
but what of the right of a starving person who collapses at my front door. Do
I shut it in his face?"
Narrow self-interest and a spirit of fear provided a poor environment for objective
discussion, much less a compassionate response. Negative language about illegal
migrants and queue jumpers could "hide the reality of legitimate and desperate
asylum-seekers. Subtle overtones of racism and cultural deficiency can further
colour the conversation.
"Clearly no individual country on its own, nor single policy, can solve
the international refugee crisis or provide an adequate response to terrorism.
Australia has traditionally done its share in meeting need and seeking peace
and thus been able to challenge others to do likewise.
"If we are to be able to do both of these important things in the future,
we must have the generosity to look beyond self-interest, and the compassion
to recognise real people in desperate need."
This is an article by Geoff Orchison for the Catholic Voice, December 2001.
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