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INFORM-A^CTION

Issue Number 35 - November 2000

The Call for a TREATY

In his speech at Corroboree 2000, Mick Dodson called on all Australians to take up the cause for a treaty with Indigenous people. Why a treaty? Treaties are about self-determination, a right that all people wish to exercise. Such a primary right was clearly articulated in the 1988 Barunga Statement (Northern and Central Land Councils) which was presented to the Australian Government of the day. This statement called on the Government to recognise Indigenous people's rights.

In 1990, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) was established. ATSIC advocates the principle of Indigenous self-determination and continues to search for the best means of bringing about this ideal. The introduction of a treaty is a priority for the present ATSIC chairman, Geoff Clarke. He is joined in this by other key Indigenous leaders. What is important to all these leaders is that, in relation to the introduction of a treaty ensuring Indigenous rights, an appropriate process is begun.

However, mention of a treaty raises all sorts of reactions in different sections of Australian society, including Indigenous Australians. What is apparent is the need for education for all in this area. During 2001 the Social Action Office will be attempting to address this need.

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		INFORM-A^CTION Issue Number 35 - November 2000 The Call for a TREATY In his speech at Corroboree 2000, Mick Dodson called on all Australians to take up the cause for a treaty with Indigenous people. Why a treaty? Treaties are about self-determination, a right that all people wish to exercise. Such a primary right was clearly articulated in the 1988 Barunga Statement (Northern and Central Land Councils) which was presented to the Australian Government of the day. This statement called on the Government to recognise Indigenous people's rights. In 1990, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC) was established. ATSIC advocates the principle of Indigenous self-determination and continues to search for the best means of bringing about this ideal. The introduction of a treaty is a priority for the present ATSIC chairman, Geoff Clarke. He is joined in this by other key Indigenous leaders. What is important to all these leaders is that, in relation to the introduction of a treaty ensuring Indigenous rights, an appropriate process is begun. However, mention of a treaty raises all sorts of reactions in different sections of Australian society, including Indigenous Australians. What is apparent is the need for education for all in this area. During 2001 the Social Action Office will be attempting to address this need. Next Newsletter Article Newsletter Index