From conversation to action – bringing the Uluru Statement to life

The joint declaration of Australia’s mining giants in support of an Aboriginal voice in Australia’s parliament has once again showed that industry is prepared to step up and address important social reform, where political leaders have proved reluctant to champion change.

BHP and Rio Tinto have publicly stood behind the Uluru Statement from the Heart, which was penned by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people at a National Convention in May 2017 and underpins the theme of NAIDOC 2019 – Voice, Treaty, Truth.

The Uluru Statement describes the long-running quest for recognition and constitutional reforms relating to our First Nations people, and calls for the establishment of a First Nations Voice and a Makarrata Commission. The First Nations Voice would provide representation in our national Parliament, while the Commission would oversee a process of agreement making and truth-telling between Government and communities.

“We seek constitutional reforms to empower our people and take a rightful place in our own country. When we have power over our destiny our children will flourish. They will walk in two worlds and their culture will be a gift to their country.”

Feelings of powerlessness and frustration continue to permeate through Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Each year, the Close the Gap report documents key social indicators to target parity between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the general population, and we continue to underperform.

Progress is too slow in relation to school attendance, reading and numeracy, employment, and life expectancy. These things have a real and lasting effect on quality of life, health and active participation in our society.

“In 1967 we were counted, in 2017 we seek to be heard…We invite you to walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future.”

At Cannings Purple, we start and shape conversations that matter. This conversation is about more than just talk; it’s about listening to our people, follow-through and action.

We support the Uluru Statement from the Heart and stand in solidarity with our First Nations people. Let’s work together to listen to the voices that have been neglected for too long and celebrate the sovereignty that has always existed.

Cannings Purple is proud to support and work with Aboriginal organisations and businesses. Our community engagement specialists Charlie Wilson-Clark, Jordin Payne, Renee Wilkinson and Sarah-Jane Dabarera are available to help your organisation build and maintain real relationships with your stakeholders.