When the new Rudd government came in in November last year, it was one of their promises that at the opening of parliament this year there would be an apology to the Indigenous peoples of Australia. What a privilege to be here for this historic event. I didn't think I'd live to see this day where us "White Fellas" apologise for our sins in the treatment of Aboriginal people. Including the stolen generation.
It was only 41 years ago in 1947 that a refendum was held in which 90% of the Australian population agreed that indigenous Australians were allowed to be counted in the National census.
In 1962, the Federal Government gave Aborigines the optional right to vote. State laws, however, still classified "natives" as "wards of the state" and as such they were denied the right to vote in State elections. This is not ancient history.
This beautiful photo illustrates the hope we all have that words might make a difference. (From THE AGE website).
Quite a good website here too, to help understand.
2 comments:
Yes, what an amazingly great day for our country- it was very emotional and inspiring. Go Rudd ! So fantastic to feel a sense of pride that good things are happening and that the way people feel is important to our elected party... not just finances!!
I'm missing you already Jo... xxxxx
Hi Mard. I miss you too.
We just arrived in singapore. Knackered ...need a lie down with my buddy. Will email SOON.
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