FOR some mysterious reason, friends who go to Australia often come back a bit racist. Here’s how to help them get back to normal.
Challenge their racism in a pathetic British way
If they say something dodgy, object in a polite, simpering way as if you’re doing an impression of Hugh Grant, eg. “Er, well, actually, gosh, I can’t say I totally 100% agree with that…”
Isolate them in the pub
For your sake, sit out of earshot of other people to avoid the embarrassment of them hearing your friend blathering on about “immigrant gangs” or some other obsession from Down Under.
Also your friend may find that sitting in a British beer garden in strong winds and freezing rain is a strong deterrent to holding bigoted views.
Remind them they are in Britain, not Australia, now
This is easy. Go for walks in drizzle, ask them if they want a cup of tea every five minutes and organise a beach party where the greatest risks are hypothermia and depression, not sharks.
Cunningly expose them to anti-racist messages
Invite them over to watch a fun, action-packed movie like Avengers: Infinity War, but when they arrive say you feel they should watch 12 Years a Slave and The Color Purple instead. They will soon regret being prejudiced.
Also replace all their music with songs about tolerance like Ebony and Ivory and I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing. They’ll be understandably furious about all this shite on their phone, but that will teach them not to be racist.
Be ready with an excuse
If your friend makes a prejudiced comment in company, leap in Basil Fawlty-style with “He’s been to Australia, you know.” People will understand.
