Source: Human Rights Commission
Golliwogs and blackface
What is wrong with golliwogs and blackface?
Golliwogs and blackface are offensive as they perpetuate the sort of stereotypes that often underpin racism. People must take the time to understand the history and origins of these offensive icons, particularly if they wish to make money from selling them. We agree with the United Nation Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination statement in 2015 that the character of Black Pete portrays negative stereotypes of people of African descent and is experienced by many people of African descent as a vestige of slavery. Changing attitudes within the community can cause practices that were once considered acceptable to become regarded as inappropriate and offensive. Golliwogs’ fall in this category as they reinforce negative and insulting stereotypes. They have no place in our community. Progress is about leaving behind those things that no longer reflect the kind of people we are.
