The Sudanese Community in Victoria
Navigating Challenges with Resilience and Unity
Australia's diverse society is enriched by the presence of various African communities, including the Sudanese community. However, media reporting often lumps together North Sudanese and South Sudanese, failing to acknowledge their separate countries and both facing distinct challenges. This lack of differentiation leads to misconceptions about their cultural behaviours, making it difficult for North Sudanese individuals to explain their rich heritage to Australians. Additionally, the Sudanese community faces discrimination and hostility, resulting in a need for support and understanding.
A Tale of Two Sudans: Cultural Differences and Misconceptions
While South Sudan gained independence in 2011 from North Sudan and is now a separate country, North Sudan's unique cultural identities and challenges are often overlooked. This lack of distinction can lead to misunderstandings, as the cultural behaviours of one community are assumed to reflect the other. There is also little public understanding of the diversity within North Sudan itself, creating further challenges for Sudanese individuals to explain their cultural differentiations to Australians. Raising awareness about these differences can foster a better understanding and appreciation of Sudanese heritage.
Target of Intolerance: The Struggle Against Discrimination
Similar to other African communities in Australia, the Sudanese community faces intolerance and discrimination. A 2015 survey by the Scanlon Foundation revealed that more than half of respondents with an African background experienced discrimination in a 12-month period. Young Sudanese Australians often encounter racist bullying in schools without proper redress, impacting their mental well-being and overall educational experience. Additionally, South Sudanese refugees face higher rates of incarceration, indefinite detention, mental health concerns, and suicide. Recognizing these challenges is crucial in addressing and combating racism and prejudice.
Maintaining Cultural Ties: The Power of Community
Sudanese migrants often cherish the community focus present in their culture. Back in Sudan, entire neighbourhoods unite to help each other navigate everyday challenges. As a result, many Sudanese families form close-knit communities in Australia to provide mutual support. However, this strong community bond has sometimes led to negative stereotypes, portraying them as 'insular' or resistant to adopting the 'Australian way of life.' Appreciating the value of community support and cohesion can help break down these misconceptions and foster integration.
Resilience and Contribution: Making a Positive Impact
Despite the hurdles they face, the majority of Sudanese migrants express satisfaction with their lives in Australia. Most Sudanese migrants invest time in learning English and seek education and training to contribute positively to Australian society. Many have chosen to pursue careers in professions that face undersupply in Australia, such as doctors, lawyers, engineers and scientists. The desire to make a positive impact is often driven by their concern for the suffering of their people and country back home.
Evolving Concerns: Addressing New Challenges
Recent armed conflicts in Sudan, particularly in the capital city of Khartoum and Darfur, have added new layers of concern for the Sudanese community in Victoria. Many Sudanese migrants financially support their families back home and worry about their safety. The strict immigration system prevents some from reuniting with their evacuated family members, further adding to the burden on the community. Addressing these concerns requires empathy and understanding from the broader Australian society and relevant authorities.
The Upside
The Sudanese community in Victoria brings rich cultural heritage, resilience, and a determination to make positive contributions to Australian society. By recognizing the distinctions between North Sudanese and South Sudanese, dispelling misconceptions, and supporting their community initiatives, Australia can foster a more inclusive and compassionate society. Empathy and understanding can pave the way for a brighter future, where the Sudanese community and all other diverse communities can thrive together in harmony.
Reference:
End of mission statement by the United Nations Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent, on the conclusion of its official visit to Australia (12-20 December 2022) containing its preliminary findings and recommendations.
