An Indian migrant living in Melbourne has urged ns to ‘move forward with love’ after violence broke out at anti-immigration rallies over the weekend.
Thousands of protesters took part in March for rallies in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Hobart, and regional cities on Sunday.
Victoria Police said six protesters were arrested and several officers were injured following clashes in Melbourne with counter-protesters.
Footage captured wild brawls breaking out, demonstrators being hit with flagpoles, and neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell joining far-right demonstrators to ambush an Aboriginal camp.
Personal trainer Lucky Singh urged ns not to misdirect their rage at immigrants and to say ‘no to racism’.
‘I understand the cost of living has gone up, transport is overloaded, and house prices have gone up,’ he said in a TikTok video.
Mr Singh said he has seen ‘hate towards community’ increase, before sharing his love for the country and the ns who have made him feel welcome.
‘We love , you have given us an opportunity to live here,’ he said.
‘When you are drunk, we drive you home in our taxis. When you need food, we cook for you. When your loved ones get older, we take care of them.’
Mr Singh said he was worried about the children of immigrants being subjected to ‘hate’.
‘Please understand we are part of your community. We are n, we love ,’ he said.
‘Our kids play with your kids. If this hate keeps going forward, our kids are going to hate each other.’
Mr Singh concluded his plea by urging people to ‘keep moving forward with love’.
Many rushed to support Mr Singh, as one commented: ‘ is built on immigration – unless you’re a first nations person you have an immigration story.
‘Your family was given an opportunity, and others should be given the same opportunity.’
Another agreed: ‘Mate, I am so sorry. You don’t need to justify your existence. This is embarrassing to our country. You are welcome to me. You’ve made me proud.’
Others insisted the anti-immigration protests were aimed at the government rather than individuals.
‘It’s not you!! It’s not even the individuals. It’s our government! Please don’t mistake it. The government is the problem,’ one wrote.
‘It’s not hate towards you, it’s towards the government, the majority don’t want immigration stopped they just want it slowed so the infrastructure can catch up,’ another added.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the protests as seeking ‘to divide and undermine’ social cohesion.