Allies in Colour

It has been a year since Australia voted a resounding No to the Constitutional Recognition of the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

“First Nations peoples continue to experience disadvantage characterised by high rates of poor health, poverty, incarceration, and overwhelmingly, a general lack of empowerment,” she said. “If we want to end this disadvantage once and for all, we need to work differently.”

– Indigenous Australians Minister and Yanyuwa woman Malarndirri McCarthy 

“accept the result” and “move forward”.

“There are marginalised, Indigenous Australians whose lives need to be impacted in a positive way right now,”

– Senator and Warlpiri/Celtic woman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price

(source: https://www.crikey.com.au/2024/10/14/voice-to-parliament-referendum-failed-peter-dutton-anthony-albanese/)

While many are still looking to peak bodies and the government to provide alternate solutions to improving the lives of our First Nations people, Allies in Colour would like to offer suggestions on what we the people can do to strengthen the power and influence of our First Nations people”

Actions for the General Public:

1. Education and awareness:
   • Learn about Indigenous history, cultures, and current issues
   • Attend cultural events and workshops
   • Support Indigenous-led education initiatives
2. Economic support:
   • Buy from Indigenous-owned businesses
   • Support Indigenous artists and creators
   • Advocate for fair employment practices in your workplace
3. Community engagement:
   • Participate in local reconciliation groups
   • Volunteer with Indigenous-led organizations
   • Engage in cultural exchange programs
4. Advocacy:
   • Write to local MPs about Indigenous issues
   • Support Indigenous-led campaigns and petitions
   • Use social media responsibly to amplify Indigenous voices
5. Professional development:
   • Implement cultural competency training in workplaces
   • Create opportunities for Indigenous internships or mentorships
   • Advocate for Indigenous perspectives in your professional field
6. Environmental stewardship:
   • Support Indigenous land management practices
   • Participate in land care projects led by Indigenous groups
   • Advocate for Indigenous rights in environmental decision-making
7. Cultural respect:
   • Acknowledge traditional owners at events
   • Learn and use Indigenous place names
   • Respect cultural protocols and seek permission when appropriate
8. Youth engagement:
   • Support programs that connect Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth
   • Advocate for inclusive curriculum in schools
   • Mentor young people interested in cross-cultural understanding
9. Health initiatives:
   • Support Indigenous-led health services
   • Advocate for culturally appropriate healthcare
10. Increasing Indigenous Representation in Parliament

    Electing more Indigenous people to parliament could indeed be a powerful alternative:

    • Benefits:
      • Direct representation in legislative processes
      • Increased visibility of Indigenous issues
      • Diversity of perspectives in policy-making
    • Potential strategies:
      • Supporting Indigenous candidates across all political parties
      • Mentorship programs for aspiring Indigenous politicians
      • Addressing barriers to political participation for Indigenous people