YOU ME UNITY: Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

June 2011 - September 2011 ...

A new conversation starts now ... how we can recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Australian Constitution.

Over the next 6 months, 20 members of the panel appointed by the Prime Minister will be travelling across the country to listen to Australians, as currently not all Australians are equal under our constitution.

It is time to move to constitutional recognition, to embrace Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as full and equal citizens, responding to general recognition that this is something we must do.

75% of people support plans for some form of constitutional change.

A proposed change could be placed before a referendum. Current proposals include:

• A statement of recognition - acknowledging Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people’s unique culture & an important part of Australian society
• A statement of values – recognising Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people’s and fundamental Australian values such as citizens personal freedom……racial and gender equality and our commitment to a democratic government
• Repealing or amending the ‘race power’ in the constitution – creating a new guarantee of non discrimination and racial equality
• Make laws to protect Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage and redress historical disadvantage.

The panel wants to hear what people think plus any other ideas. No decision has been made yet, and you are encouraged to take part and submit your views and ideas for Constitutional change.

The Geelong One Fire Reconciliation Group is interested in being part of a local group making a submission to these plans. Would you like to do this with us?

You can find out more information at:  www.YouMeUnity.org.au