By Rene Anthere Rwanyange
For more than two centuries, Africans have been part of Australia’s story, contributing to its political, cultural, economic and social development despite enduring discrimination and other barriers. A new book, Taking Africa Seriously – Featuring African Australians from 1788, brings these often overlooked stories to the forefront while making a compelling case for Australia to strengthen its engagement with a rapidly changing and increasingly influential Africa.
Part I explores the geographical, historical and commercial connections between Africa and Australia, some reciprocal but many one-sided – Australian army, mining and football boots have disturbed African soil more than the other way around.
Part II describes and probes, with gently understatement and humour, the movements of Africans from most parts of the continent to Australia over different eras. It explains their contributions in politics and law, community organisations and business, in music and theatre, and in cuisine and sport – despite disadvantages and discrimination.
Part III explains the pressing need for Australia to take Africa seriously, politically, culturally and economically, and to make use of the connections provided by Africans in Australia for good relations with a continent of the future.
The narrative brings to the surface the courage, resilience and achievements of many individual Africans, and the support provided them by quiet Australian heroes.
Endorsements
‘This book gives voice to many African Australians and their courage, resilience and persistence, sometimes in the face of hardship abroad and discrimination in Australia. It emphasises not only the many, and sometimes surprising, historical connections between the continents but also the importance of Africa for Australia’s future. It is fresh, novel and inspiring.’ Lual Jok Alaak, author of In Sudan’s Civil War to Australian Law School (Africa World Books, 2020).
‘This unique and eclectic mix of African Australian connections and narratives offers a stimulating perspective on matters of great significance in a world of divided ideologies. Thematic analyses of personalities and events spanning many decades cover areas from historical to political, socio-cultural to academic, business to sporting, all masterfully weaved into a fascinating tapestry featuring inclusiveness and co-operation, tolerance and empathy. Highly recommended.’ Dr Marie-Claire Patron, author and co-Editor, Intercultural Mirrors: Dynamic Reconstruction of Identity (with J Krave, J Brill 2019).
‘To know Africa is to better understand our shared humanity. This thoughtful and inspiring book reminds us why African voices and experiences matter, not only to African Australians, but to the future of Australia itself. Taking Africa Seriously is an important and timely invitation to see Africa beyond stereotypes.’ Aminata Conteh-Biger (with Juliet Rieden), Author of Rising Heart: One Woman’s Astonishing Journey from Unimaginable Trauma to Becoming a Power for Good (PanMacmillan, 2020).
