Trends and Challenges: The African immigrant Experience in South East Queensland

Abstract

The number of Africans living in Queensland has produced a significant population of great diversity. In recent years, Australia has accepted and welcomed a significant number of African immigrants, refugees and displaced persons. About 1.5 % of the total Australian population of 23 million is African. Given that immigrants who have come to new countries have not only been seen as different and feared because of their distinctive culture but have also been allocated a particular place within the class structure of the society, how do Black African immigrants see their cultural identity, personal and social well-being in Australia? What does living in a black body mean for Black Africans in Queensland? What impacts do skin colour and race have on their everyday lives? Data findings from a recent qualitative study of Black Africans in Queensland provide empirical evidence to understanding their lived experiences, opportunities and challenges. As visible migrants, the African immigrants in Queensland are positioned as different and constructed as outsiders. The paper aims to stimulate further research on the mechanics of integration and social inclusion, and inspire individual and institutional antiracism education