Published: 14 Nov 2018
The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has welcomed the announcement that Voice Treaty Truth will be the theme for NAIDOC Week 2019, saying that this will help keep up pressure for a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice to Federal Parliament.
NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
MUA Northern Territory Branch Secretary Thomas Mayor, who has spent much of the past year travelling around Australia gathering signatures in support of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, welcomed next year’s theme.
“It is fitting that the theme for 2019 NAIDOC Week - Voice Treaty Truth - matches the outcomes of the Uluru Statement from the Heart,” Mayor said.
“This indicates to me that the people’s movement for Voice Treaty and Truth will grow exponentially next year.
“While the increased focus will be welcome, it is important that the movement for indigenous recognition isn’t overshadowed by any renewed push for a republic.
“As a nation we should not move towards a republic without first ensuring we have a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice to Federal Parliament.
“I call on all political parties to put this issue at the top of their list of priorities. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples will not be sent to the back of the bus.”
The National Constitutional Convention delivered a defining moment in Australia’s history. The unprecedented consensus delivered to parliament through the Uluru Statement is gaining support propelled by grass roots activism.
“To see the Uluru Statement’s aspirations delivered in full, we must persuade politicians to give the Australian people the opportunity to vote at a referendum to constitutionally enshrine the key reform in the statement – a First Nations Voice to Parliament.
“I am gravely concerned for our hope of substantive constitutional recognition because both the Labor Party and the Coalition have already shied away from the task. They must put it to the people,” Mayor said.
Media Contact: Thomas Mayor 0437 650 221
