56 years ago, Uncle Bob Anderson sat at a tram stop in Brisbane, telling anyone who’d listen that Australia counted its animals, but not its Indigenous people. He asked, “Should they be counted?” Now he sits in the hot sun, supporting another referendum for his people.
On October 14, 17.5 million voters will decide if a permanent group of First Nations people should be part of the constitution, advising the government. Uncle Bob, now 94, believes a Yes vote is crucial for the whole nation, not just for him.
However, there are growing signs that more people are leaning towards a No vote. Wayne Wharton, a longtime Aboriginal activist, believes the question being asked is wrong. He thinks the focus should be on a treaty or fair occupation.
Wharton vividly remembers the challenges faced by First Nations people in the past, from curfews to racial slurs. He seeks liberation, freedom, and restitution through negotiations with the Aboriginal nations.
Meanwhile, Nick Harvey-Doyle, a 31-year-old Anaiwan man, supports a Yes vote. He organized a rally in New York, urging Australians abroad to vote for better life outcomes for First Nations people.
Harvey-Doyle emphasizes the need for a constitutional body to empower Aboriginal people in decision-making. He believes it’s vital to acknowledge their unique way of life.
Over 96,000 registered voters are currently outside Australia. The referendum requires a majority vote across the country and in at least four states to pass. Ultimately, the decision lies with non-Indigenous Australians, some of whom find the vote controversial.
Wharton finds it troubling that millions of non-Indigenous people will decide for just 3% of the population. In contrast, Harvey-Doyle worries about the negative message a no vote would send, particularly regarding the well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
In his view, a no vote would reflect apathy towards improving the lives of these communities, contradicting the Australian value of giving everyone a fair chance.
It would be a disappointing stance for Australia to take on the global stage.
SOURCE: CNN