Local Anti-Racism Initiatives spotlight: Cinespace
Young people are setting new trends to combat racism thanks to the Victorian Government’s Local Anti-Racism Initiatives grants program.
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In 2021, Cinespace, a Maribyrnong-based not-for-profit championing cultural diversity in media, unveiled Here’s the Real Joke, Mate! —an anthology of short anti-racism films.
Funded through a previous round of the Local Anti-Racism Initiatives grants program, the series tackles racism in ways that resonates with younger audiences.
The series flips the common excuse, “It’s just a joke, mate!” on its head by exposing the harmful impacts of such remarks. Through 10 raw, humorous, and insightful clips, it empowers teens to recognise and respond to racism in non-confrontational ways.
The content ranges from a crash course on the historical roots of racism to practical strategies for navigating everyday prejudice.
“This project engages young people in critical discussions around racism at a formative stage in their lives,” explains Dr. Sarah Tartakover of Victoria University. “These conversations are vital to fostering a more equitable and just society.”
The final message? Combating racism is a collective responsibility.
Updated 5 February 2025
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