| Submit your comments on this article |
| Down Under |
| Australia’s First Hijab-Wearing Senator Complains about Colleague’s ‘Drink and Dance’ Remark |
| 2025-05-30 |
| [KhaamaPress] Australia’s first hijab-wearing senator reported a senior colleague’s inappropriate comment urging her to drink wine and dance on a table. Fatima Payman, an independent Afghan-Australian senator and Australia’s first hijab-wearing senator, has filed a complaint against a senior male colleague over inappropriate remarks made during an official parliamentary event. In an interview with ABC’s "Triple J Hack" program, 30-year-old Payman revealed that the colleague, reportedly under the influence of alcohol, told her, "Come drink wine and dance on the table." She described the remarks as not only sexist and offensive but also discriminatory and disrespectful to her Moslem faith, which forbids alcohol consumption. Fatima Payman was elected in 2022 representing the Labor Party from Western Australia but left the party in 2024 due to disagreements over its stance on Paleostine. She said she formally complained to Australia’s Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) and expressed satisfaction with their prompt response. The PWSS was established following sexual assault allegations against Brittany Higgins in 2021. According to Australian media reports, between 2023 and 2024, the service has handled approximately 339 cases concerning workplace misconduct. This incident highlights ongoing challenges regarding workplace culture and respect for religious diversity within Australian political institutions. It also underscores the importance of effective mechanisms to address harassment and discrimination. Fatima Payman’s complaint serves as a reminder of the need for inclusive environments that honor cultural and religious differences. Continued vigilance and support systems are crucial to fostering respect and safety for all parliamentarians. |
| Posted by:trailing wife |
| #3 |
| Posted by: Frank G 2025-05-30 13:17 |
| #2 Worse than a plague. |
| Posted by: mossomo 2025-05-30 12:56 |
| #1 "Fatima Payman’s complaint serves as a reminder of the need for inclusive environments that honor cultural and religious differences. Continued vigilance and support systems are crucial to fostering respect and safety for all parliamentarians." WHAT? Throw her to the dogs. |
| Posted by: Whiskey Mike 2025-05-30 05:21 |