To whom it may concern
Co-design process: Submission
I am a Data Scientist based in Brisbane. I have a family, and like any parent I want my children to have health, success and the opportunity to live their lives however they choose.
Why do you think the Uluru Statement from the Heart is important?
I had the privilege of spending some of my childhood living in the Aboriginal community of Angurugu on Groote Eylandt. This experience allowed me to glimpse into the lives of my friends and develop some understanding of the importance of family, community, culture and country. Sadly, it also gave me some insight into the ongoing trauma the community suffered as a direct result of colonialism and government policies. That the Aboriginal people have invited us all to walk forward with them is an act of extraordinary grace and courage, and I am honoured to accept their invitation.
Why is it important for Indigenous people to have a say in the matters that affect them?
Every single person, no matter where they live or what culture they come from, all want the same basic rights for themselves and their families. We all want to be safe, for our families to be healthy and thrive, and for the right to live our lives however we choose. Control over our own lives gives us a sense of purpose and hope, and allows us to plan for the future. This is what Indigenous people are asking for, and absolutely deserve to have. I believe this is a fundamental step toward equality and reconciliation.
Why do you think it's important to enshrine the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution, rather than include it only in legislation?
Enshrining the Voice to Parliament in the Constitution serves two purposes; first, it protects the Voice from being disbanded in the future, and second, it recognises that Aboriginal people were here first, and that their connection to country is valid and vitally important. It also serves to fully integrate historically colonial, migrant and Aboriginal Australians as equal under the law, and accepts the long history of Indigenous occupation as part of Australia's own history.
How could a Voice to Parliament improve the lives of your community?
An Indigenous Voice to Parliament is the key to having control over their own lives, and will provide hope, certainty and a better outcomes for communities. Who better to decide what is needed in communities than the people living there! Having hope for the future and the ability to plan will also drive greater success in the education, employment and economic situation within communities. And this of course is good for all of Australia.
I urge you to implement an Indigenous Voice to Parliament in Australia's Constitution. It is time, and it is absolutely the right thing to do.
Yours sincerely
