Right now, a 23-year-old Somali refugee who was raped on Nauru is begging to come to Australia for an abortion and post-sexual assault medical care.
And, as of right now, “Abyan” (not her real name) is being denied.
Human rights lawyer George Newhouse, acting on her behalf, wrote to both Malcolm Turnbull and Immigration Minister Peter Dutton about her case, demanding a response by 5pm yesterday; that didn’t come.
Now in a desperate measure to achieve humanitarian action, he’s started a petition demanding that Mr Turnbull let Abyan – who is 11 or more weeks pregnant – come to Australia. At time of writing, over 41,000 people have already signed it.
On Change.org, Mr Newhouse writes:
“She was brutally raped, left helpless and pregnant. Now a 23 year old Nauru rape victim is being denied urgent medical and psychological treatment in Australia.”
“This cruel and heartless act of neglect is barbaric – time is running out to help a vulnerable and traumatised young lady.”
“The Prime Minister wants Australia to be known as a country that respects women – we can start by helping this poor soul.”
“I’m her lawyer. This is desperate. The trauma will never leave her – this is the least we can do. The department is fully aware of the issue but is not acting.”
“Please sign and share – we urgently need Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to bring her to Australia for medical and psychological treatment before it’s too late.”
Add your name to the petition HERE.
If you are experiencing sexual assault, or this post has brought up any issues for you, contact 1800 RESPECT via 1800 737 732 for 24/7 professional counselling.
