Fatima Payman has quit Labor, two years after winning a rare third Senate seat for the party in WA, but has vowed to be a “true voice” for the state. Here’s her explanation of how she got to that position.
I stand before you not only as a Senator, but as a member of the august Australian Labor Party, an institution forged by ordinary Australians over a century ago.
The Labor Party has always stood up for the rights of the marginalized and defended ordinary people against tyrants, intimidators and exploiters.
It was born to challenge the idea that politics is the exclusive preserve of a privileged minority and to deliver on the promise of our happy country: a land of opportunity, a land of harmony and a land of equality.
It is a party I am proud to serve.
The ongoing genocide in the Gaza Strip is a tragedy of unimaginable proportions.
It is a crisis that touches the heart and soul and calls us to action with a sense of urgency and moral clarity.
We have all seen the gory images of young children losing limbs, having their bodies amputated without anesthesia, and starving to death as Israel continues its onslaught, streamed live around the world.
I am torn, deeply torn.
As a representative of Western Australia’s diverse and vibrant communities, I am committed to being their true voice.
To be your true voice in this room, especially when the calls for justice and humanity resonate so loudly.
Unlike my colleagues, I know what it feels like to experience injustice.
My family did not flee a war-torn country to come here as refugees so that I could remain silent when I saw atrocities being committed against innocent people.
Given our government’s indifference to the greatest injustice of our time, I question the direction the party is taking.
I am torn, deeply torn.
On the one hand, I have enormous support from ordinary members, trade unionists, long-standing members and party volunteers who are urging me to persevere and bring about change internally.
On the other hand, I am under pressure to conform to group solidarity and to represent the party line.
I see no middle way and my conscience leaves me no other choice.
I am here to be the voice of WA, not only on this issue but on various issues raised by Western Australians.
From the incarceration rate of indigenous peoples to the incarceration of children as young as 10 years old. From the rising cost of living to families living in cars and tents due to the housing crisis, from the difficulties of putting food on the table and paying the bills to the climate crisis.
These are all issues that matter to Western Australians.
Our actions must be consistent with our principles.
Looking back at history, we have to say that we were on the right side of humanity, even though it was difficult.
Unfortunately, I do not believe that our principles are consistent with those of the Labor Party leadership.
It is with a heavy heart but a clear conscience that I announce my resignation from the Australian Labor Party.
I have informed the Prime Minister that I will represent Western Australia as an independent Member of Parliament with immediate effect.