FBE hosts inaugural racial literacy event to mark International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
FBE hosted its first racial literacy event on 26 March 2026, bringing staff together to explore anti-racism, cultural humility and the role of education in driving meaningful institutional change.
On Thursday 26 March 2026, the Faculty of Business and Economics (FBE) hosted its first racial literacy event in conjunction with the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The one-hour session brought together approximately 40 academic and professional staff from across FBE and the wider University of Melbourne community.
The event created a space for reflection, dialogue and learning, featuring perspectives from leading scholars and practitioners working across anti-racism, education and institutional change.
Professor Tony Birch opened the session with a powerful call for generosity, highlighting its role in bringing people into the work of dismantling colonialism and racism. He emphasised that meaningful change requires both courage and openness to engage with difficult histories and systems.
Associate Professor Sophie Rudolph explored the role of education in addressing racial injustice, encouraging collective action and reminding participants that change can occur at multiple levels—through teaching, research and everyday academic practice.
Dr Franka Vaughan invited participants to rethink traditional approaches to cultural competence, advocating instead for a practice grounded in cultural humility. This shift, she noted, requires ongoing reflection, curiosity and a willingness to learn from others.
Dr Sashi Nair provided insight into the University of Melbourne’s strategic approach to anti-racism, outlining areas of progress as well as the challenges and continued efforts required to drive meaningful institutional change.
The session concluded with a panel discussion and audience Q&A, offering attendees the opportunity to engage more deeply with the speakers and reflect on how racial literacy can be embedded into their own work and practices.
This inaugural event marks an important step in FBE’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable and culturally aware community.