Party attended by NSW politicians slammed for 'racist speech'
A speech at a black-tie charity event attended by NSW politicians has been slammed after an apparent racist joke was made about an Aboriginal custom.
The President of the state's Legislative Council, Don Harwin, hosted a function on Friday night to celebrate Queen Elizabeth, who is now the longest serving monarch in Britain's history.
The celebrations were tainted however, after a guest opened their speech by saying "I would like to start by acknowledging the traditional owner of this land: the Crown.”
The statement appeared to make fun of the traditional Aboriginal acknowledgement of country, which has become an important Australian custom.
Deputy Opposition Leader and opposition spokeswoman on Aboriginal affairs Linda Burney said the line was “bordering on racist".
"Recognition and acknowledgment of country has become an important part of cultural protocol in Australia – comments like these display appalling ignorance and crude insensitivity," she said.
"Those of us that believe in a republic showed respect to the monarchy throughout last week's celebrations – it is unfortunate that respect has clearly not been returned."
Mr Hawin would not reveal who made the speech but said it was in ‘bad taste.’
"As President I acknowledge the traditional owners in the Legislative Council each sitting week and at all events I address in Parliament House and many elsewhere," he told told Fairfax.
"The individual making the speech was trying to be humorous.
“But, frankly, the joke was in bad taste and would have been better left unsaid at what was otherwise a fun night raising funds for a worthwhile charity."
Morning news break – September 14
