Statement from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Mick Gooda: Changing the conversation (2012 Media Release)

6.2.12

Statement from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Mick Gooda: Changing the conversation (2012 Media Release): Like most Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, I am heartbroken that the events of last week have caused distress and division amongst our people.

I am here today as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner due to the efforts of our elders.

It is the efforts of early campaigners, including those who established the Tent Embassy 40 years ago, that have enabled people like me to access and pursue education and employment opportunities that would have been unheard of in our elders’ lifetimes.

However, the struggle for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is far from over.

If we are to overcome the challenges that we still face, and there are many, we must engage constructively with each other, peacefully and respectfully.

It is time for us to change the conversation.

It’s time for us to come together and include all views and opinions in the debates we have been having and must continue to have.