As a respected Elder and cultural custodian, I often reflect on the past, the present, and the future. These are not just points on a timeline - they are interconnected, shaping who we are as individuals, communities, and as a nation.
It is my role, and the role of all Elders, to remember and honour the ancestors who came before us, who endured, who dreamed, and who paved the way for us to gather today. These ancestors, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal alike, lay the foundation for what it means to come together in oneness and truly celebrate the spirit of being Australian.
But what does it truly mean to be proud to be Australian?What does it take to recognise and honour all peoples, especially Aboriginal people, the First Peoples of this land?
I believe the answer lies in oneness. A oneness that transcends differences and connects all Australians through respect, unity, and shared understanding. This oneness is paramount if we are to celebrate the 26th of January - or any other day - with a spirit of togetherness and pride.
Oneness Under Peace Law
This oneness must be guided by what we call peace law - a principle that teaches humility, truth, and balance in all that we do. It is not a passive idea but an active commitment to understanding and embracing the rich, complex layers of Australian history.
Our Aboriginal history is rooted in language, culture, and identity - it defines who we are and how we connect to Country, community, and spirit. But Australian history as a whole must also embody these values. For a united future, we must weave these threads together, creating a tapestry that respects and celebrates all voices. This journey is one we must take together. It was laid out by all of our ancestors, no matter their race, creed, or ethnicity. It is a journey of truth-telling and repentance. A journey of acceptance. A journey to reignite the spirit that lives within each of us—a spirit of resilience, strength, and hope.
The Importance of Truth-Telling and Action
Acknowledging the past is not about blame - it’s about truth. Truth-telling allows us to honour the stories, struggles, and triumphs of our ancestors while creating space for healing and understanding. Being proactive rather than reactive is key. Australia has survived the harshness of its colonial settlement, enduring both the beauty and brutality of its history. It is now our time to rise - not through division, but through humility and leadership.
Humility is a sign of strength, not weakness. By embracing humility, we can acknowledge the wrongs of the past and lay a foundation for the future - one that is built on respect, understanding, and a deep connection to one another.
Our Vision for the Future
We believe that Australia's future belongs to all of us. By embracing good leadership, we will foster understanding and create a better Australia for everyone - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, settlers, migrants, and future generations alike.
This leadership requires courage. It requires us to stand together in oneness, to celebrate our differences as strengths, and to embody the spirit of unity in everything we do.
We are one.We are many.We are Australian - and Aboriginal - and so much more.
On this journey, we will build a nation that is not just proud but worthy of its people. A nation that embodies the values of language, culture, and identity. A nation that remembers its ancestors and honours their vision for a better future.
Let us walk together, hand in hand, into that future. Let us show the world that Australia is not only a land of resilience but a land of reconciliation, respect, and unity.
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