Image: Source: Athena Lao
A new ABC2 television series, ‘Dumb, Drunk and Racist?’ hosted by The Daily Telegraph’s Joe Hildebrand has proved a ratings hit with audience numbers at 320 000.
The show, which tests four Indian people’s preconceived notions of Australia as dumb, drunk and racist has sparked a national conversation on Twitter and in the blogosphere.
Comments range for enthusiasm for conversation to racially hostile remarks.
DanGTman posted “Dumb, Drunk, Racist, the type of people I really hate in Aussie society cause they are not doing this country good, they are destroying the reputation of this land.”
Miranda Divine commented on the show, describing a particular scene in which an Indian call centre employee is verbally abused by an Australian man.
“But while it may make us cringe, there is an element of truth in the title. The call centre operator lets Joe listen into some obscenity-laden rants from Aussies that have to be heard to be believed.”
Geopolitical strategist and writer, Prashanth Shanmugan cited female foeticide, child marriage, dowry and honor killings before tweeting about the show.
“India advances but many women still trapped in the dark ages […] India: Dumb, sexist and racist?”
Sharleen Wright exemplified the overwhelming response that stressed the need for conversation.
“@Joe _Hildebrand thanks for an enlightening show. Cringworthy to watch, but if it leads to more dialogue I’m all for it.”
Surry Hills resident Saleem Seth, formerly of India, said the show asked difficult questions.
“I have had a mainly positive experience in Sydney. The show highlighted for me the diverse range of views present in Australia.”
He also commented on the issue of the burqa, which was raised in the first episode.
“These are difficult questions not only about multiculturalism but also about equality and individual choice.
“If the show can get people from different cultures to talk to each other we can establish common ground.
A 2008 study by professor Kevin Dunn revealed that NSW was the most racist state in Australia. 46.6% of New South Welshman believed that there were cultural and ethnic groups that did not belong in Australia.
The show is a six part documentary and screens at 9.30 pm on Wednesday on ABC2.
By Christopher Harris
