Central Land Council reaffirms Yes vote from home of Uluru Statement from the Heart
Central Land Council delegates have cast their referendum ballots at the home of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, calling on Australians to ‘ignore the No camp’s talk of war’.
Alice Springs
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The Central Land Council have made a heartfelt plea for Australians to vote Yes, as they reaffirmed their support for the referendum on the country where the idea of a Voice to Parliament was born.
Uluru traditional owner and CLC member Sammy Wilson was one of dozens of delegates who cast his vote on Wednesday in the building where Aboriginal leaders from around the country voted on the Uluru Statement from the Heart in May 2017.
“I was here six years ago, when we invited Australians to join us on a journey towards Voice, treaty and truth-telling,” Mr Wilson said.
“Our council overwhelmingly voted Yes this morning because we know that when decision makers listen to our voices we end up with policies that help us, not harm us, and money is spent wisely.”
CLC executive member Barbara Shaw was also a delegate at the 2017 Uluru convention, and said she had “waited all my life for this moment”.
“The No campaign of fear, scaremongering and lies has hurt and confused many, including Aboriginal people,” she said.
“It reminds me of John Howard’s threats that people would lose their backyards if Native Title got up. He was pitting Australians against Australians for base political gain, and the No campaign is no different.
“I appeal to you to ignore the No camp’s talk of war and focus on what’s actually on the ballot – an advisory body to help us achieve outcomes together.
“Please accept our simple offer of peace and unity. Walk with us for a better future where our families can live in harmony and children can play on a level playing field.”
All four of the NT land councils, representing the 76,000 Indigenous Territorians, have backed their support for the Voice.
Early polling is now open ahead of polling day on October 14.
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