Lattouf stressed the case’s importance was about free speech,racism,the role of journalists,and a fair,independent and robust ABC.
“I will always advocate and fight for an ABC that can operate and inform the masses,inform and entertain the masses without fear or favour,” she said.
Lattouf was sacked by the ABC three days into a five-day short-term contract in December,filling in for ABC Radio SydneyMornings host Sarah Macdonald.
After she filed an unlawful termination application with Fair Work in December,last week sheextended her claim to include racial discrimination,alongside the initial claim of expression of political opinion relating to a social media post.
Lattouf’s legal team is seeking a detailed public apology and compensation for harm to her reputation,distress and humiliation. She will also seek an order that the ABC offer her a commensurate role back on air.
The broadcaster is arguing Lattouf was asked not to return after breaching a directive from management not to make any social media posts about “controversial topics”.