Victorian Premier faces Greek voter backlash over stance on genocide motion

·

The Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan, has confirmed that Labor will oppose a proposed parliamentary motion aimed at recognising the Greek-Armenian-Assyrian genocides when it is presented to the Legislative Council next week.

A government spokesperson told The Australian that “we know a lot of people feel very strongly about this issue,” but “this is not an appropriate time for this motion.”

“The war in the Middle East has hurt social cohesion in this country and led to so much division. Right now we need to focus on uniting communities, not creating more division,” the spokesperson added.

The eternal flame at the Tsitsernakaberd Memorial in Yerevan, Armenia.

This news comes after the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM) and the Federation of Pontian Associations of Australia sent letters on Wednesday, asking the Victorian Premier to bring Victoria in line with the other states of Australia in acknowledging the Genocide of the Armenian, Assyrian and Greek people.

In the GCM letter, President Bill Papastergiadis wrote: “The debate and vote on this motion will be a defining moment for those who have been waiting for recognition and justice, and the way members vote will not go unnoticed.”

Ms Allan’s opposing stance has since drawn the ire of Greek Australians, who traditionally show Labor strong support at the ballot box. It is understood some Victorian Labor branches in Greek-dominated electorates are considering motions against the government’s position.

Source: The Australian.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Heirs of a Greek inheritance: Most common problems to deal with

There are many people of Greek descent all over the world whose parents or other close relatives had properties in Greece.

Niki Louca shares her family favourite Indokaridopita (coconut cake) recipe

It is a cake her aunty Panayiota used to make often in years gone by, and one she hasn’t had for a long time.

Naz Vardar to give Melbourne seminar on shaping Vlach identity

The focus lies on the story of a Vlach priest navigating his way within the local Vlach community in Manastir (Bitola).

Out from the White Tower’s shadow: A subversive guide to Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki isn’t trying to impress you, and that’s exactly why it does. Its people carry the kind of warmth that isn’t put on for tourists.

Inaugural humanoid robot Olympics to be held in ancient Olympia

Ancient Olympia will host the world’s first International Humanoid Robot Olympics—an event blending history and innovation.

You May Also Like

Kytherians return to Roxy Theatre in Bingara for nostalgic dinner dance

Kytherians gathered at the Roxy Theatre in Bingara over the weekend for the Kytherian Association of Australia's 'Back to Bingara' event.

22-year-old man missing from Sydney’s North Shore

NSW Police have appealed for public assistance to locate a 22-year-old man who is missing from Sydney’s North Shore.

Greek student documents 48-day bike trip from Scotland to Greece to visit his family mid-pandemic

On May 10, Kleon Papadimitriou set off for his 48-day bike trip home to Greece, preparing to bike over 2,500 miles from Scotland.