| Published: | 1 June 2007 |
| Format: | Paperback 256 pp  illustrations |
| Category: | Social Ecology / Social Issues |
| ISBN: | 9781876451783 |
| Price: | $26.95 |
| Purchase this book | |
Acting from the Heart
Australian advocates for asylum seekers tell their stories
Louise Newman, Sarah Mares
In recent years, thousands of Australians from all walks of life have been moved to act in support of asylum seekers and refugees and against the Australian government's immigration policy and practice. In Acting from the Heart, over 50 people who reflect the diversity of this movement describe how and why they became involved. The contributors shared a sense of disbelief and outrage that 'Australian values' suddenly appeared to include callous self-interest and a disregard for human suffering. The detention of over 4000 children could not easily be seen as necessary or 'a fair go'. The refugee question has become a moral debate and, for some, a way of reasserting our essential human values. Acting from the Heart represents a powerful contribution to the ongoing debate about the ethics of our nation and the politics of institutionalised inhumanity worldwide.
'Acting from the Heart is a reminder to each of us that individual action does make a difference. The inspirational stories give voice to those who have suffered under and those who have fought against, unfair and indiscriminate government policy. Compelling reading for all Australians.' Rev Tim Costello, CEO of World Vision.
'The heart breaks in silence to read these stories of courage and endurance in a struggle against cruelty and indifference. These are true stories; stories which capture a shameful period in Australia's history.' Julian Burnside QC.
'An eye-opener for anyone who still believes Australia is the country of the fair go.' Chris Rau, journalist and sister of Cornelia Rau.
Louise Newman
Dr Louise Newman is Professor of Developmental Psychiatry at Monash University, and former Director of the NSW Institute of Psychiatry. Her area of expertise is infancy and early childhood development. She is involved in advocacy for the human rights of asylum seekers and particularly for children affected by the policy of mandatory detention.
Sarah Mares
Dr Sarah Mares , a child and family psychiatrist, is Head of Infancy and Early Childhood Studies at the NSW Institute of Psychiatry. She has a longstanding interest in human rights, child protection and the impact of trauma on development, and has been involved in advocacy for asylum seekers and refugees since 2001. She lives in Sydney.
