NATIONALS deputy leader Bridget McKenzie – who has an office in central Bendigo – was one of 28 senators who voted in support of Pauline Hanson’s controversial “It’s OK to be white” motion in federal parliament on Monday.
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Senator Hanson says those who didn't support her motion in federal parliament saying "it's OK to be white" have sent a message that it isn't.
The One Nation leader declared "anti-white" racism is on the rise as she moved the unsuccessful motion in federal parliament on Monday.
The Queensland senator said anyone who watched the news or social media could see increased attacks on western civilisation and the prevalence of anti-white racism.
"It is indeed OK to be white. Such a simple sentence should go without saying but I suspect many members in this place would struggle to say it," she told parliament.
"People have a right to be proud of their cultural background whether they are black, white or brindle."
The motion was defeated 31-28 despite the support of government senators.
Crossbench senator Derryn Hinch savaged Senator Hanson, saying she was locked in a race to the bottom of the sewer with Katter's Australian Party member Fraser Anning.
"It could have been written on a piece of toilet paper," Senator Hinch said of the motion.
"This sort of racism is not only wrong, it could be dangerous."
Greens leader Richard Di Natale also had a crack at former One Nation senator Anning and Senator Hanson.
"The reality is this 'it's OK to be white' slogan has got a long history in the white supremacist movement where both these clowns get most of their material from," Senator Di Natale said.
But Senator Hanson said the Greens leader's comments, including noting her "white privilege", were "a load of rubbish and BS".
She said those who shot down her motion, including Labor, the Greens, Senator Hinch and Centre Alliance senators, have sent a message.
"They're all saying it's not OK to be white," she told 2GB radio on Monday, after the vote.
She said an example of anti-white racism was people being chosen for jobs because of their ethnic background.
"It should be the best person for the job, regardless of your cultural background," she said.
Having previously told parliament in two controversial speeches Australia was in danger of being swamped by Asians and Muslims, Senator Hanson said she had always stood against racism.
"I called for equality for all Australians, regardless of their cultural background, the colour of your skin," she said.
Senator McKenzie has been contacted for comment.
Matt Coughlan and Marnie Banger, Australian Associated Press
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