You’ve probably heard the disgusting, divisive language Mr Dutton used to incite hatred against Kopika, Tharunicaa and their loving Mum and Dad on a Sydney radio show yesterday. I won’t repeat it.
Please – will you be a voice for truth and join our new “Home to Bilo Fact Check” facebook group?
If you’re anything like me, you may be feeling shocked and angry at Mr Dutton’s hateful comments.
But we can’t afford sink to this level. We need to keep leading with love and sharing the truth - and you can help.
The truth is that our government left Priya in limbo for many years before she was even allowed to apply for a protection visa.
Priya trusted that Australia would protect her and waited patiently to tell her story. By the time she was finally given permission to explain the horrors she had escaped, little Kopika was already a year old.
On the same Sydney radio program, Mr Dutton spread another lie. He said Nades “has travelled from Australia, whilst he's been here, with his matters still in the courts.”
This is easily disproved. Nades could not leave Australia because the conditions of his visa did not allow it. The fact-checkers at Australian Associated Press quickly declared Mr Dutton’s claim to be false.
But on social media, simple lies spread faster than complicated truths. And I can’t keep fighting the lies by myself.
That’s why I’m asking you to join a new facebook group called “Home To Bilo Fact Check”. In this new group, we can all play a role in alerting others to false claims and responding quickly with the truth.
I know many of you already follow our facebook page and speak up for this family on social media. But this new group will be a place for all who care for this beautiful family to work together, support each other and share tips.
Right now, I’m scared for Priya, Nades and the girls. I’m scared for Australia, and what could happen if we allow a powerful politician to turn neighbour against neighbour in this way.
But I have always believed that love and hope are more powerful than hate and despair. And with your help, I truly believe that love and hope will win the day for Priya, Nades and the girls.
Always hopeful,
Angela