Maiden Speech from Josh Burns
In his maiden speech to parliament, newly installed Federal Labour MP Josh Burns, has spoken out against a “sinister element” within Australian politics according to a report from 9 News.
Josh Burns
Burns has replaced Michael Danby who formerly held the seat of Melbourne Ports now renamed Macnamara.
In his speech he was critical of an anti-immigration rally held in St. Kilda – which is within his electorate – earlier this year. During the rally far-right wing extremists and anti-racism campaigners faced off.
“How can we fight what feels like a rising tide” Burns asked the lower house earlier this week.
“I believe, as is so often the case, the answer lies with Bob Hawke and his unique brand of patriotism. Taking pride in our nation while continuing to be persistent in our defence against discrimination and ignorance” he said.
It was his grandparents who escaped the Holocaust who provided the inspiration for him to help people find financial security and fight bigotry in all its forms.
Burns pledged to ensure that indigenous Australians achieve constitutional recognition.
He also called on Australians to learn from the 65,000 years of indigenous connection to land and water
“It is up to each of us to look after our precious environment and to heed the lessons of sustainability from our planet’s first conservationists – Australia’s indigenous people,” he said.
He paid tribute to his predecessor, veteran Labor MP Michael Danby, who retired from politics at the election.
