One year ago today, a majority of Australians rejected the opportunity to recognise Aboriginal people in the Constitution and provide for an Indigenous Voice to federal parliament. The Don Dunstan Foundation was one of many Australian organisations that encouraged a Yes vote.
We did this because we wanted to honour the carefully thought-out roadmap set out by the many Aboriginal people who drafted the Uluru Statement from the Heart. We believed – and still believe – that a Voice would make a difference to the lives of many. We also wanted to continue Don Dunstan’s legacy in advocating for justice, recognition and self-determination for First Nations people. The latter is an obligation for Australia under the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The past 12 months have been difficult and painful; the pathway ahead for an effective national voice for First Nations people is unclear. Sadly, there has also been a reactionary push against recognition of the unique place of Aboriginal peoples and cultures in Australia.
On this day of reflection, I can think of nothing better than to point readers to Lowitja O’Donoghue’s first oration in her name – an initiative of the Don Dunstan Foundation back in 2007. Her clear-headed and practical guide to advocacy remains relevant, wise and encouraging. You can listen to her speech here.
I’d also like to point readers to this year’s Oration, in which Tom Calma methodically skewered the myths that endure about Aboriginal people – some of which underpinned aspects of the No campaign. You can read or watch his speech here.
As for the Foundation, we’re soon to launch a new strategic plan – with justice for Aboriginal people central to our work, as it was to Don throughout his political career. Watch out for more details in a special edition of Dunstan News over the next few weeks.
