Books for politicians - striving for compassion

The Books for politicians campaign is designed to eliminate divisive language from politics and to encourage accountability from our political leaders. Language is a powerful tool, and for too long we have listened as the deliberate use of negative rhetoric has been directed at people seeking asylum, minority groups, people with disability and our First Nations people. This language has created division, mistrust and a lack of empathy. I decided it was time to draw attention to the frequent use of divisive language and to challenge our political leaders to use language based on dignity and respect.

A few days ago I delivered 226 copies of my book DIGNITY IN A TEACUP: true stories of courage and sacrifice from Christmas Island  to Canberra with a message to the political leaders.  During the first sitting week of the 46th Parliament of Australia the 76 members of the Senate and the 150 members of the House of representatives will receive a copy along with an information flyer explaining the purpose and vision of this campaign. I aim to highlight the impact positive language has in creating a truly inclusive and welcoming nation and insist the negative messaging we have been receiving from our political leaders ends.

I started the Go Fund Me campaign to raise the $5800 required to purchase 226 books and when I raised $2600 my publishers Australian Scholarly Publishers  www.scholarly.info  very generously offered to supply the books at a financial loss, because they support the objectives and vision of this campaign. I have decided to keep the campaign going in an attempt to reduce this financial loss. Any additional funds raised will be donated to the Rural Australians for Refugees www.ruralaustraliansforrefugees.org.au raising awareness of the issues relating to people from refugee background.

I wish to thank the many generous supporters of this campaign, it is so greatly appreciated. I strongly believe we can influence positive change and make a difference to our future.

Thank you,
Christine Cummins