This year’s NAIDOC week (7-14 July) has the theme Voice, Treaty, Truth.
This theme, of course, references the Uluru Statement from the Heart that outlines the path forward for recognising Indigenous Australians in the nation’s constitution, endorsed with a standing ovation by a gathering of 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders on 26 May 2017, following a four day First Nations National Constitutional Convention held at Uluru.
Ken Wyatt, a Noongar man from South West WA, has now been sworn in as the first Aboriginal person to take on the Indigenous Affairs portfolio in Cabinet.
His effectiveness will be measured by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by his ability to enact the goals of the Uluru Statement.
As a side note, did you know that you can obtain the flags of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nations from your local MP? Below is taken from Anthony Albanese, the newly elected Federal Labor leader’s web page:
Our flags and symbols help tell the story of who we are as Australians
If you are planning to travel overseas and represent Australia, or you are a student visiting another country on exchange, my office staff can organise a flag and a travel pack to take with you. This pack includes information on our symbols and flags, and music and words to the National Anthem.
Local non profit community groups can also apply for a flag through my office.
The flags available include the Australian, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags.
If your local MP does not offer the same service, ask them ‘why’?