Queenslanders are encouraged to join the movement for a unified future by embracing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history during NAIDOC Week 2019.
Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Jackie Trad said this year’s theme – Voice.Treaty.Truth – Let’s work together for a shared future – heralds the next steps in building an inclusive Queensland, where everyone is celebrated and has the opportunity to shape their own future.
“We amended the Queensland Constitution in 2010, to honour Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians, but there is still more work to be done,” Ms Trad said.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples deserve a voice in decisions that impact their lives, and at an institutional level have unique knowledge and important perspectives to offer Australian democracy.
“For more than 65,000 years, Indigenous voices have passed down knowledge, culture and lore that benefit today’s society in fields like agriculture, science, ecology, medicine, biodiversity, and art.
“Queensland is a richer and more vibrant community because of the contribution Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and cultures continue to make to our society.”
Queenslanders can be part of the discussion about Voice.Treaty.Truth by calling the NAIDOC Week Queensland listening line (1800 595 522) and making a 30 second recording of their thoughts and opinions on the journey forward.
The listening line messages will be compiled into a digital collection at the end of the week, representing the depth and variety of sentiment across the state about self-determination, truth-telling and better outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Ms Trad encouraged all Queenslanders to be a part of the week’s celebrations in person and online.
“As well as attending celebrations with family and friends, you can be part of the virtual NAIDOC Week community by tagging your photos and videos on social media with #voicetreatytruth #NAIDOC2019 #jointhejourney #sharedfuture,” Ms Trad said.
“If you are in Brisbane, Toowoomba, Mackay, Cairns or the Torres Strait during NAIDOC week, be sure to look for prominent landmarks lit up in the colours of the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag.
“It’s a beautiful, visual tribute to two of the world’s oldest living cultures who we proudly acknowledge as the first Queenslanders.
