Australia is the only Commonwealth state that has not signed a treaty with its Indigenous Peoples. The Indigenous Cultures of Australia are some of the oldest on our planet. A recent archaeological find in Western Australia’s Barrow Island places Indigenous people living in Australia to over 50,000 years ago. That's ancient!
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The discussion surrounding a treaty for Indigenous rights in Australia has been going on for over 100 years and is a very interesting topic. New Zealand for example had the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840. Bob Hawke Australia's longest serving Labour Prime Minister promised a 'treaty' by 1990 but the controversial word raised alarm and was changed to 'document of reconciliation'.
There are many sad stories in the history of the Australian Indigenous Peoples including the theft of children for over 60 years during the last century. These unfortunate stolen children are known as the Stolen Generations and in 2007 an apology by the government was finally issued.
Photo Credit Pixabay
I believe the real reason for continued inaction over the issue of treaty in Australia is two-fold:
A treaty would potentially hinder the continued plunder of Australia's mineral resources
Australia's Indigenous Culture has ancient roots demonstrating how to live harmoniously with our environment. To give this culture credence goes against all the values of our western financial system
The rest of the Commonwealth, the United States of America and many other countries have treaties with their Indigenous Peoples. I believe it is long overdue for Australia to do the same.
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However after living with many dispossessed Indigenous Australians on the streets of Melbourne and in Australia's notorious Gatwick Hotel (pictured above) - I came to see the sad truth that complex processes such as institutional racism, an AUD $14.5 Billion alcohol industry, the ready availability of ice and heroin in the private prison system and lack of services continue to subjugate Indigenous Australians.
My heart breaks when I think of some of the people I met during this period of my life. If you would like I will share these stories with you.
I will be thinking about how Steemit can contribute to the Indigenous Peoples of Australia beyond just publicising their plight.
I wish all Indigenous Australians the best of luck because this fight for rights is seriously stacked against them!
Some current information regarding Indiginous issues can be found at this Facebook Group and specifically on a Treaty here.
