For centuries Aboriginal peoples have been subject to the whim of Governments. Yet Aboriginal people remain generous - acting in good faith, working with Governments with the hope of creating sustainable change.
“In 2023, we collectively have the opportunity to cement in place for future generations a mechanism that will ensure our voices are finally heard,” VACCA’s CEO, Muriel Bamblett shares.
“At VACCA we breathe the Uluru Statement of the heart: “When we have power over our destiny our children will flourish. They will walk in two worlds and their culture will be a gift to their country.”
The Voice to parliament makes the Federal government accountable. We currently have committees to government with little or no authority, we have action plans that government don’t deliver on and human rights violations. Having an Aboriginal voice in Federal parliament will make visible Aboriginal people not just through our activism nor through us being a problem to be solved.
“As Victorians we have seen how voice is changing the landscape of Aboriginal Affairs where Aboriginal voice is prominent in Treaty making – this demonstrates a maturity, elevates Aboriginal decision making and opportunities for individual and collective voice.
Regardless of whether people think a Voice or Treaty should come first in the process it doesn’t matter. We as a peoples have waited long enough to be heard. Nothing less than a yes or we lose our chance to drive reform reclaim our rights to self determination,” Ms Bamblett added.
VACCA has been a consistent voice of Aboriginal children and their families in Victoria for over 45 years. We champion children and the unheard members of community especially carers, Elders and Aboriginal women experiencing family violence. We believe their voices should be heard.
“I don’t believe we need to get caught up too much in the detail of what the legislation looks like – sovereignty will not be ceded. A voice for Aboriginal people takes nothing away from the Australian people. History has proven through the 1967 referendum and the 2008 apology that Australians are about doing the right thing. I can comfortably vote yes now” Ms Bamblett said.
A yes on the Voice to Parliament is the right outcome. This work is being led by an amazing team of respected Aboriginal experts and thought leaders to make sure we get the right outcomes for the communities we serve.
This week (18-24 February) marks a National Week of Action that will build community awareness and address misinformation about the proposed model. We urge all Victorians to become informed and bring others on a shared journey towards a Yes vote at the upcoming referendum.
VACCA encourages community to take part, to ask questions and to engage in this momentous opportunity.
Will you join us & sign up now? https://ulurustatement.org/
Nothing less than yes.