In the world of the ‘big political boys’ it is shocking to read in Crikey that 78-year-old Aunty Joy Murphy was removed from two events by event organisers. Aunty Joy wished to offer visiting ex-US president Obama ‘a gift’, which is cultural practice. Event organisers found this moment of sharing and respect ‘too difficult’ in 2023. Shame racist Australia!
In the Byron Shire there appears to be no local will by Council or elected representatives to prioritise targets to Close the Gap; this was implemented in 2008 with 17 socioeconomic targets… have they been addressed to illustrate justice and human rights? It would appear not. After the documentary Incarcerated Nation was shown at Brunswick Picture House, Delta Kay, Indigenous representative, spoke of the need for a local space to deal with traumatised young First Nations youth. No space exists. Furthermore, Councillor Sarah Ndiaye spoke publicly of seeking support from developers for housing; only one was willing to develop housing for First Nations peoples. Shame Byron Council and favoured developers!
There is a paucity of will by Australian settlers to look beyond colonial consciousness as we approach a turning point in Australia’s identity with the Voice offering a vision to ‘walk together’. There is no specific funding for Indigenous health and social needs in Byron and what is offered is ad hoc, a lack of clarity in policy further confuses and intimidates the traumatised and vulnerable Indigenous folk.
Is this who we really are? Can GPs offer bulk billing please? Can Council seek the generosity of heart to illustrate the will to work for a healthy Indigenous community? Can developers address their own racism? Can we recognise our basic humanity? Can we dismiss skin as the pivot justifying prejudice and cruelty? Can we all overcome a very vile cruel colonial history that currently pulsates in cruel oppression of a remarkable people? Finally, can we walk together in peace?
So what you’re saying is, you didn’t get what you want.