ETHNIC COMMUNITIES COUNCIL OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
A Historic Moment: Join Us in Supporting the Voice Referendum
An Unprecedented Epoch: Stand with Us in Advancing the Voice Referendum Australia stands on the brink of a significant milestone – the impending Voice Referendum. This critical event marks our earnest journey towards genuine reconciliation and recognition of our First Peoples. Drawing inspiration from the momentous 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart, the referendum paves the way for a potentially transformative constitutional shift, grounded on the pillars of Voice, Treaty, and Truth.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the ancient custodians of this land, have long embodied the spirit of inclusion and camaraderie, welcoming a diverse range of ethnic communities and enriching Australia's multicultural tapestry. Now, on the eve of this constitutional decision, it's our turn to reflect this respect and recognition.
Casting a 'Yes' vote in the referendum is more than a mere approval. It symbolizes a robust affirmation of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' history, culture, and their invaluable contributions to Australia's societal fabric. It reinforces their status as the original inhabitants and stewards of this land, the backbone of modern Australia.
Furthermore, this referendum attests to Australia's commitment to fostering equal representation for all cultures within our society. Promoting the Voice Referendum signifies our respect for, and recognition of, the unique rights of Indigenous people as the First Australians.
While acknowledging the diversity of opinions and empathizing with those who may vote differently, our position remains firm: a vote for the Voice Referendum signifies a leap towards a more equitable, harmonious, and culturally diverse Australia. Our commitment was exemplified at last year's Federation of Ethnic Communities' Council of Australia(FECCA) conference where over 900 delegates endorsed the Uluru Statement.
We are particularly focused on raising awareness about the referendum within our multicultural communities, illuminating the significance of Voice, Treaty, and Truth. We extend our gratitude to Minister Anne Aly, Senator Sue Lines, the Yes23 Campaign, and the WA Labor Party for their guidance in this endeavor. We pledge to continue nurturing open and respectful dialogue between our diverse communities and First Peoples.
This referendum offers an extraordinary opportunity to champion significant structural changes for our First Peoples. On the precipice of this historical moment, we call on all our members to join us in shaping a meaningful and enduring legacy. Let's unite on this journey towards authentic reconciliation, building a foundation for an equitable and truthful Australia that future generations can appreciate and cherish.
Surveying the public sentiment, recent opinion polls (May-June 2023) suggest a close contest, with both support and opposition oscillating around mid-forties in percentage. It's noteworthy that a considerable portion of the population remains undecided, highlighting the urgency of our mission to spread awareness and inspire decisive action.
In the same spirit, Linda Burney, the new Minister for Indigenous Australians, has actively campaigned to garner support for the referendum. She has spoken passionately about the Uluru Statement from the Heart, describing it as a generous invitation to all Australians to walk hand in hand with First Nations peoples. Meanwhile, WA Labor Senator Pat Dodson echoed these sentiments, asserting that recognizing and enshrining a Voice would significantly enhance our nation.
Our shared vision of establishing a Voice for the First Peoples in our governance structures has also been echoed at a state level. Mark McGowan who served as the former Premier of Western Australia, has said that the outcome of the national referendum could influence the creation of a similar Voice to the WA Parliament. His administration had previously amended the WA constitution to acknowledge WA’s Aboriginal people as the state's original inhabitants and traditional custodians of the land. This demonstrates a steadfast commitment to reconciliation and paves the way for more inclusive political structures.
Together, we can spark a change. Let's make this referendum count, not just as a vote, but as a pivotal affirmation of Australia's multicultural identity and our shared future.
Surveying the public sentiment, recent opinion polls (May-June 2023) suggest a close contest, with both support and opposition oscillating around the mid-forties in percentage. It's noteworthy that a considerable portion of the population remains undecided, highlighting the urgency of our mission to spread awareness and inspire decisive action.