I'm a proud woman of the Wiradjuri people born and raised on my country in Forbes, now living on Bidjigal country in the St George area. I'm studying a Bachelor of Arts (Indigenous studies) and Social work at the University of Sydney. I also have a degree from WSU. I also intern with CPB and help write their reconciliation action plan.
Why do you think the Uluru Statement from the Heart is important?
Because Aboriginal people need to see ourselves as the strong independent people we are and this country needs to show basic human respect for all it's citizens. Seeing our voices being respected will change how we see ourselves, at the moment our young people are taking their our lives at shameful rates. It's an utter disgrace that we call ourselves a first nation country when the Kimberly has the highest rates of suicide in the world.
Why is it important for Indigenous people to have a say in the matters that affect them?
It's important for Indigenous people to have a say in the matters that affect them because the government have been failing Aboriginal people since it was first established. Non Indigenous people have no understanding whatsoever on our lives, issues or experiences. Only we can help ourselves and protect our people.
Why do you think a Voice to Parliament is important?
An Indigenous voice in parliament is absolutely the only way to achieve equality in this country. Aboriginal people do not have the population to have our voice heard via voting and if anyone's voice should be heard in this country it's the people who have cared for it for over 60 thousand years. If you want the gap closed this is how to do it.
Why do you think it's important to enshrine the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution, rather than include it only in legislation?
If the voice in parliament is in the constitution it will prevent all the hard work from being undone at the drop of a hat.
