International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - A chat with 3ZZZ

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (21st March) marked 64 years since the lives of 69 individuals who were peacefully protesting Apartheid laws were lost in South Africa.  

For Jon King, station manager of 3ZZZ, “every day and every week” is the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, where it is important to remember that this happened not too long ago.

“I believe this should be a day of mourning, not of celebration, similar to ANZAC day,” says Jon.

He adds that it should also be a day to remember how systemic racism continues to impact culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups today.

With over 60 language and community groups represented on 3ZZZ, the station has helped share and connect with different cultures by ensuring they are “for community, by community, with community.” This community ownership allows broadcasters to share stories that both themselves and the community are passionate about. As a result, Jon says that “being hyper-local allows you to uncover the real truth of community,” which is not always covered by mainstream media. 

Multicultural media plays a vital role in the Australian media landscape considering that more than a quarter of the population were born overseas, 23% speak a language other than English at home and 3.4% speak English not well or not at all. For Jon, “speaking peer-to-peer", ensures that specific communities are keeping up to date with issues and policies that are impacting them and learning how to manage them.  

With their own space carved out for CALD communities, Jon is excited about showcasing Australia as only one of the many multicultural and multi-religious countries in the world. “The most difficult times are opportunities to learn and grow, and my knowledge of political and social issues has swelled during my time at 3ZZZ.”

“It’s exciting to learn who’s in other countries and who’s migrating to Australia.”   

L-R: George Zeait Lebanese presenter, Jon King Manager, Ranjiv Bhan Receptionist