Ageism is not on

AGEISM REMAINS a nasty stereotype in the Tweed Shire, according to Tweed Shire councillor Nola Firth, who will raise a motion during this week’s council meeting to help curb the behaviour and introduce a new Senior Ambassador Award.

Cr Firth said ageism is especially relevant here in the Tweed “where we have a high proportion of older people”.

“According to the Australian Human Rights Commission, ageism is the most acceptable form of discrimination and is widely occurring,” Cr Firth’s motion reads.

“Ageism depicts older people as onlookers rather than contributors, as frail, dependent, IT inept and resistant to change.

“The World Health Organisation has found that such ageism negatively affects employment, mental health, education level, financial security, health, and longevity.

“This motion introduces ways to challenge ageist language and practice, focus on and celebrate the significant contribution made by older people, and to value their considerable experience and unique perspective.” you’re most likely looking at Venus which is currently visible every evening on a clear sky from around 5pm till about 8-9pm,” the comment read.

Cr Firth will move that the general manager requests to include consideration of ageism as a part of Seniors Week activities. “Items might include seminars for the general public on addressing ageism, ageist language and on learning from Indigenous Elder regard,” she said.

“That a new category of award be established for the 2023 Australia Day Awards called ‘Senior Ambassador Award’.” YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you been a victim of ageism? The Weekly would like to hear your story. Please email editor@ theweekly.net.au or phone the editor directly on 0447 300 258.

“Regarding the movement, are we talking a substantial distance or minimal to the point like a wobble which could be the effects of atmospheric distortion.”

“Probably a satellite. I seen them all the time in Coffs,” another comment read. YOUR THOUGHTS: What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen in the night sky? The Weekly would like to hear from you. Send your thoughts and letters to editor@theweekly.net.au