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May 25, 2002 Media Release

NSWALC CALLS FOR NEW COMMITMENT TO RECONCILIATION ON SORRY DAY

As the nation prepares to remember and recognise the Stolen Generations on Sorry Day on May 26th, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council urges the Howard Government to affirm its commitment to reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

"Despite an overwhelming response from non-Indigenous Australians for an apology and support for the Reconciliation process, the Howard Government still doggedly refuses to symbolically represent the sentiments of the people on these issues," Chairman of the NSWALC, Rod Towney said.

"Although there is little evidence of Statesman-like leadership from the current Government, on Sorry Day we look to the Government to show real leadership and affirm its commitment to both the formal Reconciliation process and in understanding what reconciliation really means to Aboriginal people - that rights and so called "practical reconciliation" must come hand in hand.

"Members of the Stolen Generations lost their right to grow up with their families and traditions. This has often resulted in long term social, emotional and economic disadvantage.

"It is simplistic and unrealistic to suggest that funding alone is enough to break cycles of poverty and welfare dependency. Addressing the underlying issues behind resulting problems such as low self esteem and low self respect must be part of this process."

Chairman Towney said that Reconciliation process has been abandoned by the Government. In 2000, the Government-funded Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation delivered its final report which made six recommendations - the fifth being the development of a treaty (or agreement) process. Both NSWALC and ATSIC accept this recommendation, however, despite allocating a further $5.5 million to establish Reconciliation Australia, the Prime Minister has shown no commitment to the recommendations and publicly labeled any concept of a treaty divisive.

"A treaty is not about division. It is about establishing a consensus of understanding that will be enshrined in law and bring Australians together," Chairman Towney said.

"NSWALC proposes that moves toward a treaty will bring credence to the sentiments expressed by the people of Australia on Sorry Day. This is why we are thoroughly consulting our membership on the issue of a treaty."