27/09/2023
The referendum has put Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in a complex and difficult position. The Voice is about recognition and self-determination, but unfortunately this pursuit is becoming obstructed by misinformation and harmful racist debate.
However, this referendum is also an opportunity to make the First Nations voice louder. It’s an opportunity for Australia to listen, learn, and celebrate First Nations governance, strength, and cultures.
Australia has a lot to learn from the First Peoples of this land. By voting yes, we amplify Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. By voting yes, we send a message of support and solidarity with First Nations communities.
We know from the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey that, frustratingly these votes, that are ultimately about human rights, get to be decided by the people they don’t affect. At ACON, we strive toward allyship, and part of that means promoting self-determination. That’s why, on October 14, ACON calls on non-Indigenous people in our communities to vote YES, to give a Voice back to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We also know from the Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey that these processes cause unnecessary harm. An essential part of practicing allyship is calling out racism when we see it. It is on us to minimise the harm caused by racist rhetoric and misinformation, both now, and after the referendum.
We encourage our communities to stay informed, listen to, and prioritise, First Nations voices. Share these in conversations with friends and families, so that First Nations perspectives are what informs the way our communities vote.
ACON will continue to provide support to all First Nations LGBTQ+SB people who seek it, regardless of their voting intentions.
Find out more:
➡️ acon.org.au/about-acon/latest-news/ -acon-calls-on-non-indigenous-people-in-our-communities-to-vote-yes
Art by Wiradjuri and Birpai man, Wayde Clarke (Alejandro Lauren)
