I was at a tennis match in Brisbane when some spectators started yelling at me for wearing a niqab. They were shouting things like “show your terrorist face” and “if she does her husband will beat her and all his other wives.” It went on for ages and was really scary and offensive. Is this considered discrimination?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Kate Dodgson of [author’s firm]:
- This is vilification on account of your religion and it is prohibited.
- Vilification is a public act that incites hatred towards, serious contempt for, or severe ridicule of a person or group of persons on the grounds of their race, religion, sexuality or gender identity.
- A public act also includes conduct that is capable of being observed by the public.
- As this occurred in a public arena and was directed at you due to your religion you have a claim of religious vilification against these spectators.
- You will most likely need legal assistance to work out how you can identify them.