Threads of Reconciliation
by Graeme Mundine,
Acting Executive Secretary, National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission

Back in 1997, Pat Dodson, said there are twin threads to reconciliation - making sure Indigenous people get land and native title rights and a practical side, improving housing, health and education.
"The two are woven together," he said then.
There have been times in the seven years since, when politicians have used the excuse that we need to manage the practical side better as a way of wriggling out of addressing the broader issue of rights. Today we have a situation where there still hasn't been enough done on either front. It would be reasonable to ask "what's all the talk been for?"

More investment in health of Indigenous people is needed
Long-term investment in Indigenous health programs is necessary to overcome the alarming fact that Australia has the biggest gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. ABC

Deal struck to end mining at Jabiluka
Both the traditional owners of Kakadu National Park and the mining company are happy with an agreement reached which will end operations at the Jabiluka uranium mine. ABC

Aussies living longer and getting richer
While the majority of Australians are living longer and getting richer, Aboriginal people are still the most disadvantaged group in the community. SMH

Reconciliation: working together to build bridges
Sir William Deane, patron of Reconciliation Australia, says reconciliation must involve more than just practical measures and include Aboriginal representation and symbolic issues. Australians need to recognise that there is a need for "genuine consultation rather than confrontation" and "compromise rather than intransigence" for reconciliation to be achieved. Reconciliation Australia

Redfern Riot Reflects Unequal Relationship between Black and White Australians
Riots which followed the death of an Aboriginal teenager in Sydney's Redfern reflect the social alienation and dispossession still faced by Indigenous people. The Guardian

Aboriginal Governance is a Concern for all Australians
"The Government's wish to change ATSIC is understandable; their desire to destroy it is not." Moving forward as a nation requires resolution of the grievances and governance of Aboriginal people. Online Opinion

Sorry Day
This website provides links to the history of crucial decisions affecting Indigenous Australians such as Wik and Mabo as well as many Aboriginal Heritage sites. Join more than 24,000 other Australians who have electronically registered their apology to Aboriginal people.
http://www.acn.net.au/articles/sorry/

Adventures in Northern Australia
An invitation to visit the Burarra people and experience their way of life on the land in northern Australia. Go hunting and exploring with Danaja and his Grandfather.
http://burarra.questacon.edu.au/home.html

"But I'll tell instead of brave and fine
when lives of black and white entwine.
And men in brotherhood combine,
this would I tell you, son of mine."
Oodgeroo Noonuccal

"Jimmy Little's Gentle Journey"
Jimmy Little was Australia's first Aboriginal pop star who overcame poverty and hardship to now celebrate 50 years in the music industry. This is his story.
ABC-TV Wednesday May 12, 9.30pm

Subscribe

Caritas Latest

Caritas Responds to North Korean Train Disaster
Caritas is seeking assistance to help replenish medical supplies and to contribute to rehabilitation in Ryongchon County following a tragic train disaster.

A Salute to Ten Years of Democracy in South Africa
South Africa is celebrating ten years of majority rule and a peaceful transition to democracy with the dismantling of apartheid. The country now faces the challenges of curbing the spread of HIV/AIDS and increasing employment opportunities for its people.

Bangladesh Tornadoes Cause Widespread Destruction
Caritas has provided food and medical support to the survivors of a series of tornadoes which hit northern Bangladesh leaving 74 dead, some 1,500 injured and a trail of destruction.

Search