To Co-Design Body
Co-design process: Submission for Imogen Albany
My name is Imogen Albany and I am a proud Kalkadoon woman living in South West Sydney on Dharawal land. I am currently studying at The University of Sydney on Gadigal land, and am in my 3rd year of a Speech Pathology degree. I am proud to say I am apart of the AIME mentoring program as well as IAHA (Indigenous Allied Health Australia) as well as many other cultural groups that exist within the university.
Why do you think the Uluru Statement from the Heart is important?
It is important as it acknowleges the connection Aboriginal people have to country and the importance of custodianship we hold. It urges Australia to think of Aboriginal people as the leaders we are, as we carry the knowledge of 60,000+ years with us. Aboriginal people are the Voice of this nation and should be treated as so.
Why is it important for Indigenous people to have a say in the matters that affect them?
Grass roots programs and self reliance are key in making lasting and effective change. As Aboriginal people we know what is best for us and we have the cultural knowledge to make change happen. We have the know how to make lasting change and we need to be heard in order for this to be achieved.
Why do you think a Voice to Parliament is important?
For too long the voice of Aboriginal people has been ignored in Parliament and across Australia. It is time for Aboriginal voices to be heard and to be listened to. A Voice to Parliament is the first step in doing this. Aboriginal leaders need to be heard and respected.
Why do you think it's important to enshrine the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution, rather than include it only in legislation?
The voice needs to be engrained into Australia's culture, and therefore should be enshrined into the Constitution rather than only in legislation.
Kind regards,
Imogen Albany
