Newsletter date: 1 March 2012
Contents:
* Press Conference on Stronger Futures legislation by The Hon. Alastair Nicholson AO RFD QC
* "Democratic process in tatters" Michele Harris
* Parliament House Canberra protest called for repeal of the NT intervention
* ANTaR: New laws would entrench coercive measures for another ten years
* Online Petition: "No nuclear waste dump at Muckaty"
* "Labor attempts to sneak nuclear waste dump under the radar" Greens Scott Ludlam
* Tent Embassy set up in Portland’s Market Square, Vic
* "Ballerrt Mooroop College to close in 2 weeks" Save Ballerrt Mooroop College
* More on the Nyoongar Tent Embassy at Matagarup
* "Winner of caucus spill must talk about Aboriginal sovereignty" Michael Anderson
* "No-one in government cares enough about Aboriginal peoples" Gerry Georgatos
* Other Northern Territory (NT) Intervention articles
* Background to the Northern Territory (NT) Intervention
* Other articles
* Upcoming Aboriginal rights events around Australia - 17 events from 1 March 2012
* PRESS CONFERENCE ON STRONGER FUTURES LEGISLATION BY THE HON. ALASTAIR NICHOLSON AO RFD QC:
- Videos
'concerned Australians':
Without Justice there can be no Reconciliation:
Videos from the Launch and Press Conference on the Stronger Futures legislation
http://www.concernedaustralians.com.au/
"* Introduction - by Jeff McMullen
* Commentary on the Proposed Stronger Futures Legislation - by The Hon. Alastair Nicholson AO RFD QC
* Commentary - by The Hon. Frank Vincent AO QC"
See:
WGAR News: Book report launched: "NT Consultations Report 2011: By Quotations" (19 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/19/wgar-news-book-report-launched-nt-con...
[Includes link to transcripts of consultations and book of quotations: http://www.concernedaustralians.com.au/ ]
Human Rights Petition: Australian Government: Stop Stronger Futures and support Aboriginal self-determination in the NT
https://www.change.org/petitions/australian-government-stop-stronger-fut...
WGAR News: Submissions received on Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill (8 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/08/wgar-news-four-actions-to-help-stop-t...
WGAR News: More on the Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill (9 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/09/wgar-news-tent-embassy-protest-interv...
WGAR News: More on Government’s proposed Stronger Futures legislation (19 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/19/wgar-news-book-report-launched-nt-con...
WGAR News: New Website for Stronger Futures info and submissions (21 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/21/wgar-news-news-of-the-nyoongar-tent-e...
WGAR News: "NT Aboriginal leaders reject Stronger Futures" Tracker (23 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/23/wgar-news-nyoongar-tent-embassy-march...
Main Government page for Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill 2011 and two related bills:
http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate_Committee...
Direct Government link to view all uploaded submissions
http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate_Committee...
Direct Government link to view all uploaded hearing info
http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate_Committee...
[Darwin transcripts have been added since last newsletter, plus program for Canberra hearing on Thursday 1 March 2012]
- Related Media Release
Greens Rachel Siewert: Stronger Futures Inquiry to continue in Canberra
http://rachel-siewert.greensmps.org.au/content/media-releases/stronger-f...
27 Feb 12: "A screening of the film 'Our Generation' will take place at Parliament House tonight, followed by a discussion of the NT Intervention and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Australian Greens spokesperson on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Issues, Senator Rachel Siewert has encouraged MPs to attend this evening's screening and engage in discussion about Stronger Futures.
"The aim of this event is to facilitate a strong discussion about these important issues," Senator Siewert said today.
"The ongoing Senate Inquiry into the Stronger Futures legislation will continue this Thursday after a week of consultations in the Northern Territory.
"So far, evidence being presented to the Inquiry continues to underline the fact that the measures being imposed on people are not supported. They are clearly regarded as the next phase of the Intervention.""
- Related News
newsTracker: Debate begins on Stronger Futures laws
http://tracker.org.au/2012/02/debate-begins-on-stronger-futures-laws/
27 Feb 12: "Parliamentary debate began on Monday into draft laws which would extend the intervention begun under the Howard government. The proposed laws continue alcohol restrictions and introduce 18-month jail terms for Aboriginal people caught carrying more than 1.35 litres of alcohol and six-month sentences for possessing alcohol in certain areas. ... Australian Greens MP Adam Bandt said his party would oppose the bills because they were not in the interest of Indigenous Australians."
Koori Mail: New NATSIEC boss calls for consultation
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php
27 Feb 12: "THE new National Director of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ecumenical Commission, Kerry Charlton, has called on the Federal Government to listen to the voices of Northern Territory Elders and communities calling for proper consultation surrounding the proposed Stonger Futures legislation, which will extend the intervention."
Australian: Intervention Mark II remains a mystery in NT, despite consultations
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/indigenous/intervention...
27 Feb 12: "ABORIGINAL people have little knowledge of the next phase of the Northern Territory intervention, despite the government embarking on a six-week consultation through communities, a Senate Committee has heard. Senators toured communities throughout the Northern Territory last week to discuss concerns over the new phase of the intervention, "Stronger Futures", but ended up wasting most of the committee's time by having to explain the government's policies, Territory senator Nigel Scullion said."
- Related Audio
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
CAAMA Radio News 27-02-2012
http://caama.com.au/caama-radio-news-27-02-2012-2
27 Feb 12: "The Northern Territory Co-ordinator General for Remote Services Olga Havnen has told the Senate committee taking evidence on the Stronger Futures legislation that the bill does not promote active engagement with Aboriginal people, particularly in relation to education."
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
Senate comittee holding public meetings about the proposed Stronger Futures Legislation
http://caama.com.au/senate-comittee-holding-public-meetings-about-the-pr...
28 Feb 12: "The Federal Government’s Stronger Futures Legislation extends many of the original measures, such as compulsary income management and alcohol resrictions. It also threatens parents of children who traunt with welfare payment cuts. Hearings are held throughout the week in Ntaria, Alice Springs, Maningrida and Darwin. The Senate comittee chair Claire Moore says no matter the extent of community consultation, there is never a perfect process."
* "DEMOCRATIC PROCESS IN TATTERS" MICHELE HARRIS:
- Analysis / Opinion
On Line Opinion: Democratic process in tatters
http://www.onlineopinion.com.au/view.asp?article=13309
29 Feb 12: "And so, Senators, where does this leave you? Your report will be released on 13 March. Senator Scullion has already cast grave doubt over the value of the consultations that were held between Government and Aboriginal people. You have heard over and over again, face to face, that the legislation is unacceptable to very many Aboriginal people living in prescribed communities. You know that eminent legal minds have expressed the belief that the proposed legislation will breach the Racial Discrimination Act. So where does this leave you? The only hope for Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory is that the Senate will retain some integrity when the Bills eventually come before it." Michele Harris
* PARLIAMENT HOUSE CANBERRA PROTEST CALLED FOR REPEAL OF THE NT INTERVENTION:
- Statement
Green Left: Parliament House protest to call for repeal of NT intervention
http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/50165
28 Feb 12: "Stand for Freedom and the Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney released the statement below on February 28. * * *
At noon on Tuesday February 28 at Parliament House in Canberra a strong coalition of human rights, community sector and Aboriginal organisations will demand the Senate reject "Stronger Futures" legislation, which passed through the House of Representatives yesterday. This legislation will extend the Northern Territory intervention for a further 10 years and expand income management across the country. Planned speakers include Aboriginal leaders from both the NT and Bankstown in Sydney, which is facing the implementation of income management in July 2012. The rally is part of a campaign, "Stand for Freedom", which has been launched online to oppose the legislation and demand Aboriginal self-determination. More than 3,400 people have signed the online petition in just a few days. More information about the campaign is available at its website. ... "
See:
Stand for Freedom:
There can be no reconciliation without justice:
http://standforfreedom.org.au/
STICS (Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney):
http://stoptheintervention.org/
- Audio
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
CAAMA Radio News 29-02-2012
http://caama.com.au/caama-radio-news-29-02-2012
29 Feb 12: "Organisers of a protest rally held in in Canberra against the proposed Stronger futures legislation have accused the Gillard Labor Governments of reverting to similar policies from the 1950′s and 60′s as a means of controlling and managing Aboriginal people in Northern Territory communities."
- Video
ABC: Intervention law protest in Canberra
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-02-28/intervention-protest-takes-place-i...
Updated 29 Feb 12: "Activists have gathered on the lawns of Canberra's Parliament House to protest over the Federal Government's plans to extend the NT Intervention."
[Includes comments by Barbara Shaw.]
- Past event
Koori Mail: Rally against Stronger Futures bill
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php
27 Feb 12: "A RALLY will be held in Canberra tomorrow (Tuesday) protesting the Federal Government plans to extend key aspects of the NT Intervention for another ten years. The Stand For Freedom campaign calls for a moratorium on income management, which the Government is rolling out in other parts of the country. The campaign also calls for more funding for homelands and greater Indigenous self-determination. The rally, being coordinated by the Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney (STICS), is due to begin at 12 noon on the lawns of Parliament House and will feature Elcho Island Elder Rev Dr Djyinini Gondarra and other Aboriginal Elders as speakers."
Event: Tue 28 February 2012: Lawns of Parliament House, Canberra, ACT
Major Rally: Stand For Freedom
Stand Against a Decade of Discrimination:
Stop the Second Intervention!
Speakers include:
* Rev Dr Djiniyini Gondarra
* Barbara Shaw
* Monica Morgan
* Dr John Falzon
* Daphne Lake
Free outdoor screening of Our Generation
"Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory legislation
currently before parliament would extend the NT
Intervention for a further ten years."
Initiated by:
Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney (STICS) &
Our Generation &
Say No to Government Income Management Coalition
Event details: http://stoptheintervention.org/#StandForFreedom
Event details: http://indymedia.org.au/rally-at-lawns-of-parliament-house-canberra-stop...
Event details: http://indymedia.org.au/stand-against-a-decade-of-discrimination-stop-th...
Event details: http://www.greenleft.org.au/events/50095
Flyer: http://stoptheintervention.org/uploads/files_to_download/Past%20Events/C...
Flyer: http://standforfreedom.org.au/2012/02/22/stand-for-freedom-rally-canberr...
* ANTaR: NEW LAWS WOULD ENTRENCH COERCIVE MEASURES FOR ANOTHER TEN YEARS:
- Media Release
ANTaR - Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation:
New laws would entrench coercive measures for another ten years
http://www.antar.org.au/new_laws_would_entrench_coercive_measures_for_an...
28 Feb 12: "The Stronger Futures legislation passed the House of Representatives yesterday, weeks before the completion of a Senate inquiry into the bills which would entrench coercive measures for a further 10 years.
"The lack of parliamentary scrutiny of these bills, which would have far-reaching and long-term effects on affected communities, is extremely concerning," says Jacqueline Phillips, ANTaR National Director.
"Instead of waiting for the Senate Committee's report, informed by consultations in affected Aboriginal communities, the legislation has been fast-tracked through the lower house with limited debate."
"Five years on, the Government’s new Stronger Futures laws would maintain coercive aspects of the original 'emergency response' for a further 10 years."
"This is directly at odds with a commitment to moving from intervention to building safe and sustainable communities.""
See:
ANTaR's Stronger Futures Submission:
http://www.antar.org.au/sites/default/files/Draft%20Submission%20to%20St...
ANTaR's Pre-Budget Submission 2012-13:
http://www.antar.org.au/sites/default/files/Pre%20Budget%20submission%20...
* PETITION: "NO NUCLEAR WASTE DUMP AT MUCKATY":
GoPetition: No nuclear waste dump at Muckaty
http://www.gopetition.com.au/petitions/no-nuclear-waste-dump-at-muckaty....
5 Feb 12: "Target: Australian Senators
Region: Australia
Web site: www.beyondnuclearinitiative.com
Background (Preamble):
Legislation is due before the Australian Senate that would name a site in the Muckaty Land Trust, 120km north of Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory, to be declared and assessed as a national radioactive waste management facility. Many Traditional Owners strongly oppose this plan and are calling on people around Australia to help them bury the radioactive waste dump proposal. More information, photos and audio can be found at www.beyondnuclearinitiative.com www.dumpthedump.org.au
For information on why a Northern Territory waste dump is not needed for continuation if nuclear medicine see: http://vimeo.com/29971907 "
See:
Vimeo: Nuclear Medicine & the need for a Waste Dump?
http://vimeo.com/29971907
YouTube: Muckaty Voices-Australia's nuclear waste dump story
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xcuNpT84Ovo
Beyond Nuclear Initiative:
http://beyondnuclearinitiative.com/
Australian Conservation Foundation: Muckaty radioactive dump:
http://www.acfonline.org.au/be-informed/northern-australia-nuclear/mucka...
Nuclear Territory News: Waste Dump News
http://ntne.ws/articles/article.php?section=waste
Proposed Radioactive Waste Dump at Muckaty, NT
Briefing Paper - February 2011
Jim Green B.Med.Sci.(Hons.), PhD
National nuclear campaigner - Friends of the Earth, Australia
Friends of the Earth: http://www.foe.org.au/anti-nuclear/issues/oz/nontdump/Dump%20briefing%20...
- Upcoming event
Event: Sun 11 March 2012: cities across Australia
Rally against uranium
Event details: http://www.acfonline.org.au/get-involved/take-action/renewable-not-radio...
* "LABOR ATTEMPTS TO SNEAK NUCLEAR WASTE DUMP UNDER THE RADAR" GREENS SCOTT LUDLAM:
- Media Release
Greens Scott Ludlam: Labor attempts to sneak nuclear waste dump under the radar
http://scott-ludlam.greensmps.org.au/content/media-release/labor-attempt...
27 Feb 12: "Labor's attempt to pass widely-opposed nuclear waste dump legislation under the cover of their leadership squabble is cynical and shameless, the Australian Greens said today.
Greens spokesperson for nuclear issues Senator Scott Ludlam said Labor wants to pass the National Radioactive Waste Management Bill behind the fog of the leadership dispute because the law is "completely rotten".
"The Traditional Owners do not want this eternal radioactive waste dump on their country; the locals don't want it; the Northern Territory government does not want it; and medical experts have criticised the Government's scheme.
"There is a Federal Court case currently unresolved as to the status of this land, yet the Government pushes on - lead by a resources and energy minister obsessed with the nuclear industry. This legislation does not just represent a problem for Muckaty - it places enormous and virtually unchecked power in the hands of that solitary minister.""
- Related News
NT News: Ballot a 'smokescreen' for dump law: Greens
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2012/02/27/291001_ntnews.html
27 Feb 12: "THE GREENS say the government is cynically using Labor's leadership ballot to sneak through its plans to establish a nuclear waste dump in the Northern Territory. Greens senator Scott Ludlum said it was inappropriate for the government to push through the bill to dump the waste at Muckaty Station near Tennant Creek when the nation's focus was consumed with a vote on the Labor leadership."
Tennant & District Times: Bush photos place Muckaty in sharp focus
http://tennantcreek.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/bush-photos...
24 Feb 12: "The Manuwangku, Under the Nuclear Cloud, photo exhibition, launched in Sydney earlier this year, was on display in Melbourne’s Federation Square as part of Australia’s biggest sustainability festival last weekend. The exhibition was a huge hit with Melbournites who along with a growing number of city and country dwellers around the nation are angered by a radioactive waste dump plan at Muckaty, 120km north of Tennant Creek. "There is a great deal of interest in the exhibition and the Muckaty story," said Beyond Nuclear Initiative (BNI) convenor Natalie Wasley."
* TENT EMBASSY SET UP IN PORTLAND'S MARKET SQUARE, VIC:
- Audio Interview
ABC South West Victoria: Portland's tent embassy, the Penshurst wind farm, and Warrnambool heritage
http://www.abc.net.au/local/audio/2012/02/15/3431060.htm
15 Feb 12: "The Aboriginal tent embassy in Canberra has become a semi-permanent fixture over the years, and now other tent embassies are starting to appear around the country including one in Portland about a week ago."
- News
Indymedia Australia: Tent Embassy set up in Portland
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/26/tent-embassy-set-up-in-portland
26 Feb 12: "On Wednesday the 8th of February 2012, a Tent Embassy was established in Market St Portland with the support of the Dindama Yinna Inna National Woman’s Council and the Canberra Tent Embassy. Organiser Sandra Onus was quoted in the Portland Observer stating: "We are here to show to the State Government they must deal with the right people from country in regard to Native title," Ms Onus said. "What we are asking is not hard, we are asking for the State Government to be aware of clan areas and to deal with the right people.""
The Spec: Glenelg Shire neutral on Indigenous tent embassy
http://www.spec.com.au/blog/2012/02/24/glenelg-shire-neutral-on-indigeno...
24 Feb 12: "THE Glenelg Shire Council says it is sympathetic to the Indigenous tent embassy at Market Square and will allow it to continue indefinitely. Mayor Gilbert Wilson says the political goals of the embassy group can’t be addressed by the Shire but the group’s plight will not be interfered with as it attempts to gain the attention of state politicians."
The Standard: Tent embassy set up in Portland
http://www.standard.net.au/news/local/news/general/tent-embassy-set-up-i...
15 Feb 12: "PORTLAND indigenous groups are holding a tent embassy protest and demanding to meet with the state government over issues of Native Title and social services inequality. Six tribes from the Portland and Heywood region have arranged the tent embassy at Portland’s Market Square, one of many expected to appear across the country in coming weeks. As well as lobbying for land rights, the protesting tribes - Yigar, Gilga, Kerrup-Jmara, Kilcarer, Cart Gundidj and Euroite - have claimed other clans are receiving preferential treatment, according to organiser Sandra Onus."
The Spec: Tent embassy open to the public
http://www.spec.com.au/blog/2012/02/15/tent-embassy-open-to-the-public/
15 Feb 12: "THE Portland Aboriginal Tent Embassy is gaining momentum after a week set up at Market Square on the corner of Percy and Tyers streets. The embassy was established last Wednesday with the support of the Dindama Yinna Inna National Woman’s Council and the Canberra Tent Embassy (not the Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women’s Council as previously stated in Friday’s Portland Observer) and will be one of hundreds to be set up across the country in the coming weeks."
The Standard: Portland tent embassy protests indigenous issues
http://www.standard.net.au/news/local/news/general/portland-tent-embassy...
14 Feb 12: ""We want the state to meet with us and discuss the problems in the Koorie community in what's been delivered in land rights," she [organiser Sandra Onus] said. "Native Title is supposed to be according to custom and tradition - that is not happening here. The Native Title process is not delivering to traditional owners. We expect the state government to at least come along and meet with us.""
The Spec: Tent embassy protests land rights issues
http://www.spec.com.au/blog/2012/02/10/tent-embassy-protests-land-rights...
10 Feb 12: "INDIGENOUS residents have erected their own tent embassy in the centre of town to protest land rights issues on a local and national level. Organisers say the embassy, which was erected at Market Square on Wednesday evening, will be one of hundreds popping up across the country in coming weeks, designed to reignite the issue of land rights. Portland organiser Sandra Onus says the embassy is part of a two-year plan ... and is not a knee-jerk reaction to the Australia Day protests in Canberra."
* "BALLERRT MOOROOP COLLEGE TO CLOSE IN 2 WEEKS" SAVE BALLERRT MOOROOP COLLEGE:
- News
Save Ballerrt Mooroop College:
This Koori Pathways School in Glenroy Victoria is under threat
Ballerrt Mooroop College to close in 2 weeks
http://ballerrtmooroop.org/?q=content/ballerrt-mooroop-college-close-2-w...
"The Staff and Committee of the Ballerrt Mooroop College in Glenroy were told by the Victorian Department of Education that the school will be closed down in two weeks. They were called to a meeting at 2:00pm on Tuesday 28th February, 2012 and told that the school will be closed due to costs and a lack of students. The school is the last remaining Indigenous school in Melbourne and has been providing formal education as well as an opportunity for students to learn their Aboriginal history and traditions."
See:
Save Ballerrt Mooroop College:
This Koori Pathways School in Glenroy Victoria is under threat
http://ballerrtmooroop.org/
* MORE ON THE NYOONGAR TENT EMBASSY AT MATAGARUP:
See:
WGAR News: News of the Nyoongar Tent Embassy on Heirisson Island in Perth (21 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/21/wgar-news-news-of-the-nyoongar-tent-e...
WGAR News: Nyoongar Tent Embassy marches to Government House in protest (23 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/23/wgar-news-nyoongar-tent-embassy-march...
WGAR News: More on Nyoongar Tent Embassy in Perth (26 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/26/wgar-news-petition-stop-stronger-futu...
Facebook: Nyoongar Tent Embassy
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nyoongar-Tent-Embassy/247548351988930
- Analysis / Opinion
Indymedia Australia: Nyoongar Tent Embassy - 1 Nyoongar Way, Mattagarup - the story to date
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/28/nyoongar-tent-embassy-1-nyoongar-way-...
28 Feb 12: "Following Thursday evening when 60 police officers marched into Nyoongar Tent Embassy to pull down and confiscate tents, and which included an arrest, the Western Australian police force flexed its muscle once again on the Friday afternoon on behalf of the Perth City Council and the Barnett state government. However Nyoongar Tent Embassy will not be out-muscled and are standing strong true to their convictions - The Embassy has set up a mailbox and people who wish to write letters of support can send them to 1 Nyoongar Way, Mattagarup (Heirisson Island), WA 6004." Gerry Georgatos
Crikey: The Northern Myth: Bob Gosford in the NT
Barnett’s billion dollar deal or no deal in the wild, wild west
http://blogs.crikey.com.au/northern/2012/02/28/barnetts-billion-dollar-d...
28 Feb 12: "This is a guest post from anthropologist Ken Macintyre writen at the time of the announcement of the Barnett government’s billion dollar deal to purchase and extinguish all Native Title claims and connections to country throughout southwestern Australia. ... It was (and still is) very unclear as to where the money will come from but it was made clear was that it would not be accessible for ten years, that it would be entrusted to the South West Land and Sea Council (SWALSC) and its expenditure supervised by government authorities ... " Ken Macintyre
- News
National Indigenous Radio Service: Canberra Tent Embassy founder backs Noongar Embassy
http://www.nirs.org.au/news/latest-news/6987-canberra-tent-embassy-found...
29 Feb 12: "A prominent Indigenous rights advocate has expressed his support for the Noongar Tent Embassy on Heirisson Island in Perth, which is an act of protest against a $1 billion dollar Native Title offer. ... [Michael Anderson, co-founder of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra, says] "My advice to [the Noongar people] is that they should now assert themselves and say that they are, in fact, the Noongar Yamatji nation government. What they need to do now is call upon the West Australian Government to recognise that and to talk with them.""
Green Left: Nyoongar Tent Embassy enters third week
http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/50141
26 Feb 12: "Despite heavy police intimidation and media racism, the Nyoongar Tent Embassy at Matagarup, otherwise known as Heirisson Island in Perth, is still standing strong. ... Embassy participant Iva Hayward-Jackson told Green Left Weekly the embassy is about asserting Nyoongar sovereignty and protecting sacredness of Aboriginal culture. "We have support from all corners of Nyoongar society now," he said. "People who in the past have not got on are all joining together in unity now. They are standing together for the protection of this site, for the protection of the embassy and protection of our laws, traditions and customs."" Alex Bainbridge & Farida Iqbal, Perth
West Australian: Bollards put up at camp
http://au.news.yahoo.com/thewest/a/-/wa/13019110/bollards-put-up-at-camp/
27 Feb 12: "The City of Perth has erected concrete bollards across the main access point to Heirisson Island in an attempt to force the closure of an Aboriginal camp. Cars have been parked on the Causeway verge as protesters defy attempts by the council to stop them sleeping on the island. ... Union boss Joe McDonald visited the site yesterday. Later he said he had advised the protesters about how to call on unions for support and how to get legal help."
Intercontinental Cry: Australia: Nyoongar People Reject Billion Dollar Native Title Deal
http://intercontinentalcry.org/australia-nyoongar-people-reject-billion-...
24 Feb 12: "A Nyoongar Tent Embassy was established on Perth’s Heirisson Island this month in response to a Billion dollar proposal by the Western Australia government that would force the Nyoongar to surrender their land title, permanently. ... Prominent Indigenous organizer Marianne Mackay said from the embassy last week: "We don’t agree with the SWALSC negotiations with the Barnett government. We don’t want money. We want our land, for our future. We are the custodians [of the land] and we have an obligation to protect it.""
- Videos
YouTube: Uncle Ben Taylor at the Noongar Tent Embassy in what is now called Pearth
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWnO8sioK7M
24 Feb 12: "Kaya - This video is uploaded as a sign of respect for all Noongar peoples. In particular Mingili Manjuri McGlade's mother who recently passed away. Rest in peace. Uncle Ben has asked me to say he thinks some sections of the WA media have done a great job when interviewing him."
YouTube: Uncle Ben Taylor
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5I4RdQp7LE
16 Feb 12: "Uncle Ben Taylor. Aboriginal Embassy, Perth, Heirisson Island in the Swan River."
* "WINNER OF CAUCUS SPILL MUST TALK ABOUT ABORIGINAL SOVEREIGNTY" MICHAEL ANDERSON
- Media Release
"Winner of caucus spill must talk about Aboriginal sovereignty"
By Michael Anderson, spokesperson for the National Unity Aboriginal government
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/26/%E2%80%9Cwinner-of-caucus-spill-must-...
26 Feb 12: "The Federal government has a cheek to call Aboriginal communities dysfunctional. I think it time they apologise for these denigrating inferences, given the absolute dysfunction of the Labor party as shown in recent times. Even more disappointing is the fact that they try to tell Aboriginal people and the rest of the world that he democratic way is the only way. The leadership battles, personal abuses, exposure of Cabinet secrets, muck-raking and intrusion into family and personal lives as is popularly used in the United States and New South Wales in respect to the personal moralities of politicians, while searching for pure white puritan politician, is a process that is undiplomatic and unbecoming. ... "
- News
Koori Mail: Labor must talk sovereignty, says activist
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php
26 Feb 12: "ACTIVIST Michael Anderson has called upon whoever wins tomorrow's ALP Caucus ballot for the Prime Ministership to talk with Aboriginal people about recognition of their sovereignty. Mr Anderson, who is seeking to establish a new 'Aboriginal National Unity Government', said today it was a cheek for the Federal Government to call Aboriginal communities dysfunctional, given the Labor Party's 'absolute dysfunction' in recent times."
* "NO-ONE IN GOVERNMENT CARES ENOUGH ABOUT ABORIGINAL PEOPLES" GERRY GEORGATOS:
- Analysis / Opinion
Indymedia Australia: No-one in government cares enough about Aboriginal peoples
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/28/no-one-in-government-cares-enough-abo...
28 Feb 12: "Well placed sources, including parliamentarians, in the Australian Labor Party, the Coalition, and the Greens have made surprising comments that issues afflicting Aboriginal peoples and 'Aboriginal affairs' are in the 'too hard basket' or 'best swept under the carpet'." Gerry Georgatos
* OTHER NORTHERN TERRITORY (NT) INTERVENTION ARTICLES:
- News
ABC: Figures reveal tough justice rules in NT courts
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-02-29/abs-law-courts-report-nt-worst/385...
29 Feb 12: "Law courts in the Northern Territory recorded the largest proportion of custodial sentences in the nation in 2010-11. New figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reveal that, nationally, 9 per cent of defendants found guilty in courts of law were sentenced to jail terms. The Territory had the largest proportion of custodial sentences at 32 per cent, representing a one per cent increase on the previous year. More than 70 per cent of all Territory defendants were Indigenous, slightly higher than the year before."
National Indigenous Radio Service: Calls to move CDEP away from 'work-for-the-dole'
http://www.nirs.org.au/news/latest-news/6985-calls-to-move-cdep-away-fro...
27 Feb 12: "Gapuwiyak community worker Dave Suttle says CDEP has a number of benefits and its reduction over the years has been damaging. "For the vast majority of Aboriginal people, CDEP now is a work-for-the-dole scheme. This has meant that the real money in people's hands has been considerably less. Not only are people earning less per hour in real time that they're working, it also means that people are on only unemployment benefits, which means that they're on a Basics Card."
See:
Jumbunna: "Rebuilding from the Ground Up" Alternatives to the Northern Territory Intervention:
http://www.jumbunna.uts.edu.au/researchareas/alternatives.html
Jobs With Justice - Demand 3
http://www.jumbunna.uts.edu.au/researchareas/newmedia/jobswithjustice.html
"Create a new Aboriginal employment program to replace Community Development Employment Projects (CDEP) that have been gutted through recent reforms and are exploiting Aboriginal workers. Jobs created must pay at least award wages, with rights to join unions and collectively bargain. The program must be administered by community based organisations, with development needs and priorities set through broad community consultation. All willing workers should be employed."
* BACKGROUND TO THE NORTHERN TERRITORY (NT) INTERVENTION:
Creative Spirits: Northern Territory Emergence Response (NTER) - "The Intervention": http://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/politics/northern-terr...
'concerned Australians': Without Justice there can be no Reconciliation: http://www.concernedaustralians.com.au/
CAAMA (Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association) - NT Intervention: http://caama.com.au/?s=NT+Intervention
Stand for Freedom: There can be no reconciliation without justice: http://standforfreedom.org.au/
IRAG (Intervention Rollback Action Group): Mparntwe - Alice Springs: http://rollbacktheintervention.wordpress.com/
STICS (Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney): http://stoptheintervention.org/
Tracker - NT Intervention: http://tracker.org.au/tag/nt-intervention/
The Greens: Rachel Siewert: Northern Territory Intervention: http://rachel-siewert.greensmps.org.au/portfolios/aboriginal-torres-stra...
Treaty Republic - NT Intervention: http://treatyrepublic.net/search/node/NT%20Intervention
Crikey - NT Intervention: http://www.crikey.com.au/topic/nt-intervention/
New Matilda - northern territory intervention: http://newmatilda.com/tag/northern-territory-intervention
Darwin Aboriginal Rights Coalition: http://darwinaboriginalrights.wordpress.com/
ANTaR (Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation) - NT intervention: http://www.antar.org.au/issues_and_campaigns/nt_intervention
MAIC (Melbourne Anti-Intervention Collective): http://maicollective.blogspot.com/
The Conversation - After the Intervention: http://theconversation.edu.au/pages/after-the-intervention
Australian Human Rights Commission: Northern Territory ‘Emergency Response' intervention: http://www.hreoc.gov.au/social_justice/intervention/index.html
Jobs with Justice: http://jobswithjustice.wordpress.com/
Amnesty International Australia: Looking back at the Northern Territory Intervention: http://www.amnesty.org.au/indigenous-rights/comments/24460/
Students For Indigenous Rights - UQ: The Northern Territory Intervention: http://uqsir.files.wordpress.com/2011/03/stir-uq-intervention-intro-fact...
Defending Indigenous Rights: http://defendingindigenousrights.wordpress.com/
Intervention walk-off's Blog: http://interventionwalkoff.wordpress.com/
FAIRA; Human Rights Law Resource Centre; NACLC: Australia's compliance with CERD - Fact Sheet 2: Northern Territory Intervention: http://www.hrlrc.org.au/files/Fact-Sheet-2-NT-Intervention.pdf
Green Left: Northern Territory intervention: myths and facts: http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/39732
WGAR (Working Group for Aboriginal Rights): http://wgar.wordpress.com/
* OTHER ARTICLES:
- News
Koori Mail: Oxfam calls for Close the Gap support
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php
28 Feb 12: "OXFAM is calling on Australians to get behind National Close the Gap Day and register an event for Thursday, 22 March. Tens of thousands of Australians are expected to take part in events in support of the Close the Gap campaign, which aims to achieve health equality between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians by 2030. To find an event in your area or to host an event visit www.oxfam.org.au/nctgd "
* UPCOMING ABORIGINAL RIGHTS EVENTS AROUND AUSTRALIA - 17 EVENTS FROM 1 MARCH 2012:
Click on the links for details of the events ...
Event: 11 February 2012 to 26 May 2012: South Bank, Brisbane, Qld
Exhibition: From Little Things Big Things Grow
- Fighting for Indigenous Rights 1920-1970
Event description: http://www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/from_little_things_big_things_grow/
Event location: http://www.nma.gov.au/exhibitions/from_little_things_big_things_grow/tra...
Event: Tue 28 February to Sun 25 March 2012: Adelaide, SA
Exhibition: Deadly: in-between heaven and hell
Tandanya NACI and Adelaide Festival
"A major exhibition of newly commissioned works
by eight leading Australian Aboriginal artists and
collectives. ... For many Indigenous peoples,
'heaven on Earth' is the divine world shaped by
ancestral creators, where connection to country
and culture are in harmony with the experience
of self and community. At the other extreme, the
legacies of incursion and assimilation are a
'living hell'. The in-between is uneasy, lined
with hope and echoing with resilience."
Event details: http://www.amnesty.org.au/sa/event/27911/
Event: Intermittent 1 March - 3 May 2012: Various Locations
House of Representatives Committees
Inquiry into language learning in Indigenous communities
Public hearings:
Canberra, ACT: 1 March 2012
Canberra, ACT: 15 March 2012
Canberra, ACT: 22 March 2012
Adelaide, SA: 2 April 2012
Utopia Homelands, NT: 3 April 2012
Alice Springs, NT: 4 April 2012
Broome, WA: 30 April 2012
Halls Creek, WA: 1 May 2012
Darwin, NT: 2 May 2012
Nhulunbuy, NT: 3 May 2012
Event details: http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House_of_Represe...
Event: Thu 1 March 2012: Collingwood, Vic
Homelands Training
"Our Homelands campaign focuses on
indigenous rights across Australia.
This training is designed to give you the
tools to run a stall for our Homelands
campaign."
Event details: http://www.amnesty.org.au/vic/event/28000/
Event: Tue 6 March 2012: Parliament House, West Perth, WA
Justice for Rex Bellotti Jr Rally
Organised by the Bellotti Support Group
Event details: http://www.greenleft.org.au/events/50031
Event: Sun 11 March 2012: cities across Australia
Rally against uranium
Event details: http://www.acfonline.org.au/get-involved/take-action/renewable-not-radio...
Event: Thu 22 March 2012: various locations across Australia
National Close the Gap Day
"National Close the Gap Day (NCTGD) is a way
for all Australians to join together and remind our
political leaders of their commitments to close
the life expectancy gap between Indigenous and
non-Indigenous Australians within a generation.
Our focus for 2012 is on the need for genuine,
meaningful partnership with Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander health peoples at all
stages of health planning and delivery."
Event details: http://www.oxfam.org.au/act/events/close-the-gap-day
Attend a Close the Gap event:
(various dates and locations throughout March 2012): http://www.oxfam.org.au/act/events/close-the-gap-day/attend
Event: Sat 24 March 2012: Fullarton, SA
Amnesty International Fullarton Markets Group
"The government is currently deciding
whether they will fund essential services
on Aboriginal homelands in the next
Federal Budget.
Nearly one-third of Indigenous people in the
Northern Territory live on homelands.
Research shows that with proper services,
people can be happier, healthier and live
longer and on homelands."
Event details: http://www.amnesty.org.au/sa/event/27913/
Event: Mon 26 March 2012: Burwood
ANTaR Inner West's free screening of an Indigenous film
Film: "Here I Am"
Burwood Westfield Greater Union Cinema
" ... the story of a young Aboriginal woman's
struggle to stay off drugs and reconnect with
her young daughter and her Mother now that
she's out of jail."
Event details: http://www.sydneykin.org.au/pipermail/womenforwik/2012-February/000687.html
Event: Wed 28 March 2012: Parramatta Park, Qld
Black Deaths in Custody Watch Group meeting
Event details: http://www.greenleft.org.au/events/49933
Event: Thu 27 March 2012: Sydney, NSW
Our Generation Film Screening
Part of Message Sticks Festival 2012
Event details: http://www.ourgeneration.org.au/events/
Film info: http://www.ourgeneration.org.au/about-2/
See bottom of this page for Our Generation film reviews
Event: Fri 6 April 2012: University of Melbourne, Vic
Gary Foley will be speaking on his amazing life and times
"The legendary Aboriginal activist has been at the
centre of major political activity for over 40 years.
In the 1970’s he joined the growing circle of Aboriginal
resistance in Australia, and formed the Aboriginal
Legal Service in Sydney. ... "
Part of Marxism 2012 Conference, Easter weekend
Presented by Socialist Alternative & ISO of NZ
Supported by Community Radio 3CR 855 AM
Event details: http://www.marxismconference.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=artic...
Marxism 2012 details: http://www.marxismconference.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=front...
Event: 7 April 2012: Darwin, NT
Rock Against Racism
Organised by DASSAN and Darwin Aboriginal Rights Collective
Event summary: http://dassan.weebly.com/rock-against-racism.html
Event: Sun 6 May 2012: Sydney, NSW
Our Generation Film Screening
Followed by Q&A with Dr Jeff McMullen
and Dr Thalia Anthony
Part of Sydney Greek Festival 2012
Event details: http://www.ourgeneration.org.au/events/
Film info: http://www.ourgeneration.org.au/about-2/
See bottom of this page for Our Generation film reviews
Event: 12 May 2012: Melbourne City, Vic
2012 Autumn Action:
Stop Aboriginal Death in Custody
Remember all who have died in custody
Organised by Indigenous Social Justice Association
Event details: http://www.isja-msg.com/coming_events.htm
Event: 11 August 2012: Melbourne City, Vic
2012 Winter Action:
Stop Aboriginal Death in Custody
Remember all who have died in custody
Organised by Indigenous Social Justice Association
Event details: http://www.isja-msg.com/coming_events.htm
Event: 10 November 2012: Melbourne City, Vic
2012 Spring Action:
Stop Aboriginal Death in Custody
Remember all who have died in custody
Organised by Indigenous Social Justice Association
Event details: http://www.isja-msg.com/coming_events.htm
- 'Our Generation' Film Reviews
Elimatta:
Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater:
Our Generation - Showing in London - page 8
http://www.asgmwp.net/ElimattaWinter2011.pdf
Winter 2011: "The Intervention is yet another example of the appalling treatment the Aboriginal People of Australia have been subjected to in such a short period of time compared to thousands of years of survival. Sinem Saban and Rev. Dr Gondarra supported by the Yolngu people and cinematographer, Damien Curtis, have created a sensitive and realistic view of the plight of those who wish to live a more traditional life in their homelands and of those who appear to be dispossessed." Christine Waterer
Elimatta:
Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater:
ASG Information Night: Our Generation - page 6
http://www.asgmwp.net/ElimattaSummer2010.pdf
Summer 2010: "Local resident and journalist, Jeff McMullen introduced "Our Generation", the film by Sinem Saban and Damien Curtis which we were there to see. The film explored in depth the Federal Government Intervention into Aboriginal Communities in the Northern Territory. Jeff had told us that the film’s producers were not having any success in having the film shown on government or commercial media outlets and they were having to screen it in local community halls to show the community at large just what was involved in the Intervention. It is basically a war on Aboriginal culture. The dispossession of the Aboriginal people is simply continuing in a new guise." Carol Gerrard
See:
Our Generation: http://www.ourgeneration.org.au/
Aboriginal Support Group - Manly Warringah Pittwater: http://www.asgmwp.net/index.htm
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WGAR: Working Group for Aboriginal Rights (Australia)
WGAR Website: http://wgar.wordpress.com/