SBS journalist Liz Deep-Jones will engage in conversation with sports broadcaster and human rights activist Craig Foster and author Emeritus Professor Stuart Rees, University of Sydney, on visions for justice in post-COVID societies and issues arising from Stuart’s most recent book Cruelty or Humanity: Challenges, Opportunities and Responsibilities (Policy Press, 2020) nominated for the British Academy’s Book Prize for Contribution to Global Cultural Understanding 2021.

‘Cruelty has been normalised within Australian society. We see this clearly with desensitisation around Indigenous Australian deaths in custody, aged care, the Biloela family and most certainly, refugees. What would a humane, I might say sane, society look like? This is a question in desperate need of an answer.’ – Craig Foster

Speakers

• Stuart Rees AM is an international human rights activist and Professor Emeritus of Social Work and Social Policy, Founder/Director of the Sydney Peace Foundation and co-founder of the Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney. His many books on peace and social justice include Passion for Peace: Exercising Power Creatively (UNSW Press, 2003) and two poetry anthologies Tell Me The Truth About War and A Will To Live. In 2005, Stuart was awarded the Order of Australia ‘For service to international relations’ and in 2018, the Jerusalem (Al Quds) Peace Prize.

• Following a decorated football career as Australia’s 419th Socceroo and 40th Captain, Craig Foster AM has become one of Australia’s most respected sportspeople as a broadcaster, social justice advocate and human rights campaigner, working with the Australian Multicultural Council and as an Ambassador for Amnesty Australia, the Affinity Intercultural Foundation and Addison Road Community Centre including their #RacismNotWelcome campaign for local councils across Australia. Craig is particularly well known for his refugee advocacy and social media campaigns including #SaveHakeem, #GameOver and #PlayForLives.

• Liz Deep-Jonesis a multi-media journalist, producer, social media strategist, content creator, host, published author, public speaker and film maker. Highlights of a career spanning more than 20 years with SBS TV include interviewing the Dalai Lama, the late Nelson Mandela and Geoffrey Robertson QC. Liz is currently producing a multi-media exhibition tackling racism and celebrating Australia’s diversity.

‘We’re citizens of the world and need to speak up for equality, social justice and a more inclusive society. We can all make a positive difference to the lives of people struggling by taking action … I want to live in a world where people from all backgrounds, race and colour have the same opportunity to reach their potential and live their dream.’ – Liz Deep-Jones