I am writing in support of the Uluru statement that will enable a Voice to Parliament for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
There has never been a time in history quite like the present when the world is watching Australia to see how the Government handles important matters such as the environment and refugees however this Federation of Australia is built upon the backs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Not only does the real truth of Australia’s history need to be told but there needs to be active listening, representation, collaboration, and action to reverse the impact of colonisation on our First Nations people.
After living and working in remote Aboriginal communities for almost 20 years I know what it will mean to finally have the chance to be really heard and to help influence decisions on matters that are important; connection to country, education, health and incarceration to name but a few.
I am calling on the Government to honour it’s election commitment to a referendum once a model for the Voice has been settled to ensure that a First Nations Voice to Parliament is protected by the Constitution.
I ask that the Government enables legislation for the Voice to be passed after a referendum has been held in the next term of Parliament as well as ensuring that previously unheard Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have the same chance of being selected as leadership figures.
Australia could truly be a great nation if only it treated our First Nations people with the deep respect they deserve.
