I know it’s been a while since my last entry, it’s been a busy time. However, today is a turning point in Australia’s history and I feel compelled to make my opinion known…
As most would know, today Kevin Rudd apologised to the Aboriginal people of Australia, on behalf of the nation and the government, for the wrong actions of those in the past. It’s something that’s long overdue, and as was debated in parliament yesterday, it’s “unfinished business”. What I am shocked about, however, is the attitude that some people have had to this milestone in Australia’s history. Rather than a time for everyone to unite for a common cause, it seems to be a point of contention for some that have formed blatantly racist and ill-informed propositions about the issue.
I think it’s disgusting that in this day and age people want to stick to the myth that “you lost this country when you didn’t defend it.” If you really believed that, perhaps it’s time to put the shoe on the other foot. From those I’ve spoken to today, this sticking point demonstrates just how ill-informed these “radicals” are - the central issue surrounding reconciliation is that of the “stolen” generations. For 60 years, until 1970, the Australian government took mixed-race Aboriginal children from their families and put them in dormitories or industrial schools, claiming it was protecting them. This led to a whole range of social and political issues for the Aboriginal people as families were torn apart and left in harsh, poor conditions. To those who believe that an apology is not warranted, I ask you this: Would you be happy if the government came along and forcibly removed your child purely based on your race, or hair colour, or gender? One would assume not.
I think that saying sorry is a step in the right direction. It’s a move that takes great courage, both politically and personally, and has paved the way for a long road of healing. One can only hope that today’s apology can lead to further developments towards reconciliation in the future. While you might view it as too little too late, I think you’d be hard pressed to provide a better alternative.
I could get into a political debate very easily here so I’ll simply leave it by saying thank you to Mr Rudd for putting into words what many have felt for years. It’s a pity the same can’t be said for Dr Nelson who despite agreeing, insisted on bringing the Liberal agenda into the equation.
What are your thoughts?