There has been a very disturbing trend in Victoria over the past few years where basic rights have been eroded over time and minorities are represented over the rest.
Take the latest case of Rachida Dahlal. This Victoria University student is a devout Muslim, complete with head scarf. No problem so far.
She has recently been refused a training placement at a Christian school in Werribee. The reasoning for the refusal is that as a devout Muslim she would have been uncomfortable working at a school where there are regular Bible readings and prayer for the teachers. Also as a Muslim she is not allowed to represent the beliefs of another religion. Again this is reasonable, since under Islam those of other faiths are not allowed to have any outwards signs of their religions around Muslims.
As allowed in Victoria Dahlal immediately contacted the Equal Opportunity Commission to complain about the Heathdale Christian College accusing it of discrimination and prejudice.
After having to pay out lots of money in defense while Dahlal pays none this case will of course be found in favour of the college. Or will it if Victoria has its way?
Deputy Premier and Attorney-General Rob Hulls have announced a review of the exceptions and exemptions in the Equal Opportunity Act because of the Human Rights Charter. The charter of course refers to freedom of religion, conveniently ignored in this case.
To make this as one sided as possible they have asked Associate Professor Elizabeth Gaze to aid in the inquiry. Gale has stated publicly "Religious susceptibilities should not be able to be protected in situations where the offence to them would be small and the effect on the person affected would be serious."
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