Clarence Valley Council will sign the Refugee Welcome Zone Declaration to help support refugees and people seeking asylum.
Mayor Ian Tiley proposed that Council take the necessary steps to become a Refugee Welcome Zone In a Mayoral Minute presented to the Ordinary Council Meeting at Grafton Council Chambers on 26 July.
“It is becoming increasingly important that communities welcome refugees and advocate for their permanent protection,” Mayor Tiley said.
“Regardless of our differences, we all share the need for acceptance and to heal.
“Our community can collectively work towards building a fairer and more compassionate society by being welcoming to those who have experienced injustice, persecution and exclusion.”
The councillors showed unanimous support for the Mayoral Minute.
The Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA) is the national umbrella body for refugees and people seeking asylum and those who support them.
Over 170 Australian local government councils have become Refugee Welcome Zones, including nearby councils Armidale, Ballina, Byron, Coffs Harbour, Glen Innes, Lismore, Port Macquarie and Tweed.
“The process for becoming a Refugee Welcome Zone is very straightforward and simply involves the Council signing the Refugee Welcome Zone Declaration,” Mayor Tiley said.
“Becoming a Refugee Welcome Zone can motivate local government and support groups to work together more effectively to improve settlement outcomes for refugees.
“It is a great way to demonstrate support for refugees and take a strong stand against racism and discrimination.”
