While reading Michal Schiff’s letter (Echo 3 Apr) I am reminded of the Uluṟu Statement from the Heart’s request for truth telling as a fundamental step toward historical healing.
As a descendant of white colonial rule in Australia we also have to face our shame of being complicit with an aggressive regime and the damage it did and still inflicts on the ‘original’ people of this land.
I empathise with Michal as it can be a very bitter pill to swallow as a person that aspires to a peaceful life. As he said it was a chance for the ‘original’ people of Palestine and their allies to speak but there is much more that could be covered. However, it is in our power to overcome our collective colonial injustices by coming together and supporting each other to face the truth and bring healing and understating where trust has been broken.
Many Jewish and white Australian people are on this path and I hope we can keep the fire for peace and justice burning bright in our hearts.
