Protesting for refugee rights with Aran Mylvaganam

For over 60 days, Tamil and Iranian refugees have maintained a protest camp outside the Department of Home Affairs in Melbourne. Similar protest camps have spread across Australia's major cities. Their demands are permanent protection and justice for almost 10,000 refugees left in limbo by the federal Labor government.

Emma spoke to Aran Mylvaganam, a staunch refugee activist and socialist who has been heavily involved in protests for refugee rights for years. 

Aran describes the incredible bravery of refugees who have stood up to racists and neo-Nazis on the streets of Melbourne. They plan to maintain their protest against the Labor government until victory. 

Our deepest condolences to the family, friends and comrades of Mano Logalingam, a Tamil refugee activist from the encampment who died. We honour Mano in this episode and call for full rights for all refugees. 

Produced by Jack Morrison and Daniel Kenny

Music by Daniel Kenny

Further reading:

- Amid tragedy, refugee protest encampment continues - by Renee Nayef for Red Flag

- Refugees fighting for permanent protection in Sydney  - by Annabel Petit for Red Flag

- Aran Mylvaganam on the Tamil genocide, 15 years on