While debates on the borderline between free speech and protection from race speech have intensified, the Sydney Morning Herald has asserted that open hearts and minds will only ensure for reasoned debate on race
It may be that greater clarity of definitions in the legislation would strike a better balance between free speech and protection from race hate. But reasoned debate is impossible as long as a vocal minority claims ownership over the right to free speech while victimised minorities are cowed into silence because the risks to them of speaking out are too high.
Independent senator David Leyonhjelm and One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts, two of those pushing for changes to 18C, argued that offence is all in the mind of the recipient. People can choose not to be offended.
We do know that many Muslims are afraid to participate in public discourse about race because of the hate and intimidation that rains down upon them when they dare to raise any concerns, let alone criticisms, about Australian society or their experiences within it.
Open hearts and minds are required for reasoned debate on race
