Peter Dutton’s cruel “no” a guarantee of more waste, less hope
The Uluru Dialogue spokesperson Marcus Stewart addresses the media in Melbourne. (Image credit: Ben Fry)
THE FOLLOWING STATEMENT is attributable to Nira Illim bulluk man of the Taungurung Nation Marcus Stewart on behalf of The Uluru Dialogue.
“Peter Dutton is playing a cruel game with the Voice referendum by pushing a position that guarantees more wasted public money and more Canberra policies that fail Indigenous Australians.
“On 14 October, Australians have an historic opportunity to finally recognise First Nations people and give them a say on matters affecting them through an advisory body - the Voice - that they overwhelmingly support.
“Dutton calling for a second referendum instead is cruel.”
“It is cruel because it ignores the hard work and good faith of First Nations people, who have already engaged with seven processes and 10 reports - most of which were supported or actively pushed by Dutton's LNP.
“It is cruel because it will waste taxpayers' money with a process that nobody has asked for and that will have no power to make a positive difference in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“Above all, it is cruel because it deliberately silences our people - again. It is Peter Dutton playing the tired, wasteful game of overriding the advice of people in communities in favour of a position that favours his own Canberra-centric political view.
“The fact that Dutton does not even have the full support of his own party, including his own Indigenous Affairs spokesperson, reveals that the future of Indigenous people's lives are once again an ideological football with no rules.
“The Coalition and the No campaign have no alternative, no solutions and no clue.
“The Uluru Statement from the Heart was addressed to all Australians, not our politicians, because we are all tired of the waste and the political games.
“We asked Aussies to walk with us because Indigenous communities are so hampered and hamstrung by ideological politics.
“The Opposition Leader is determined to destroy this opportunity.
“Dutton's position makes the choice facing Australians on 14 October very stark.
“No is about race, fear, failed policies and more waste.
“Yes is about hope, vision, unity and a better future.”
