Jessica Mauboy has been awarded a medal for her championing of equality and speaking out against racism and bullying.
On Friday, the Australian singer and actress was presented with the Making a Difference Medal by the Anti Defamation Commission (ADC) - Australia's leading civil rights organisation dedicated combating racism, intolerance and prejudice - in Melbourne.
The award was presented by ADC chairman Dvir Abramovich, who said: “Jessica Mauboy is more than just a performer. A leading light in promoting equality and diversity, she is an outspoken advocate for social change, and an inspiring role model for young people".
Dr Abramovich said the award paid tribute to Mauboy's principled leadership in using her public stature, courage and conviction to speak out and empower those around her to stand up to intolerance and racism.
Jessica Mauboy is presented with the Making a Difference Medal by ADC Chairman Dr Dvir Abramovich. Source: ADC
"In a world sorely in need of genuine champions, Jessica Mauboy has answered the call by being a strong voice and a moral centre to remind us of what being an Australian is all about. The ADC could not be prouder in partnering up with Mauboy to create a more inclusive society and to lift our nation to even greater heights,” he said.
Mauboy's family originate from the Indigenous tribe KuKu Yalanji and she is involved in several organisations supporting Indigenous Australians, through mentoring, performing and education.
She also serves as an ambassador to the Indigenous Literacy Foundation which raises support and awareness of literacy in remote communities.
In 2015, Mauboy spoke out about being subject to racism as she defended AFL player Adam Goodes during the booing saga.
“Growing up in a diverse and multicultural environment, I have been there – as a child I was bullied and called names,” she told The Courier Mail.
“It only made me stronger, and I see what Adam is doing, is coming out of it not hating, but with a renewed passion to teach and celebrate that we are having this conversation.
The two-time ARIA Award-winning singer and songwriter said the medal was the highest of the highest awards for her.
"I truly believe treating others the way you'd like to be treated - with human kindness, love and not being judgmental," she said.
Mauboy's musical career began in 2006 as a runner up in Australian Idol after which she released three studio albums. In 2018, she represented Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest.
She also starred in musicals Bran Nue Dae (2010) and The Sapphires (2012) and TV series The Secret Daughter.
Video at top of article: Jessica Mauboy performs in the 2018 Eurovision final
