Newsletter date: 8 March 2012
Contents:
* Our Generation and ANTaR have launched a new video and campaign
* Proposed Stronger Futures laws "will kill Aboriginal people"
* Write to Senators re Stronger Futures laws
* NT Intervention panel discussion by Dr John Falzon, Lynette De Santis and Adam Giles
* More Stronger Futures Legislation related articles
* Background to 'Stronger Futures' new NT Intervention legislation
* "WA stolen wages offer 'cruel and heartless', says legal service" GLW
* "We are lucky Bob Carr was not appointed Indigenous Affairs Minister!" Gerry Georgatos
* Background to the Northern Territory (NT) Intervention
* Other articles
* Upcoming Aboriginal rights events around Australia - 20 events from 8 March 2012
* OUR GENERATION AND ANTaR HAVE LAUNCHED A NEW VIDEO AND CAMPAIGN:
- Media Release
ANTaR (Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation):
New campaign calls for new direction in NT Aboriginal communities
http://www.antar.org.au/new_campaign_calls_for_new_direction_in_nt_abori...
"Our Generation and ANTaR have today launched a new video and campaign to highlight serious concerns about the Stronger Futures legislation currently before the Senate.
"The Stand for Freedom campaign calls for the withdrawal of the Stronger Futures bills and a new direction in remote communities based on partnership, rights and respect," said Damien Curtis, Stand for Freedom Director.
"The Northern Territory Intervention has been criticised by the United Nations as racially discriminatory and contrary to international human rights principles. If passed, the Stronger Futures legislation would extend many of its key measures for a further 10 years," Mr Curtis said.
The Stronger Futures legislation is currently before a Senate Committee. ...
"ANTaR is very concerned that community support for these far-reaching and long-term measures has not been obtained," said Jacqueline Phillips, ANTaR National Director.
"This raises questions about the bills’ compliance with the Racial Discrimination Act as well as the Government’s commitment to resetting the relationship in Aboriginal communities." ...
Nearly 5000 Australians have signed the Stand for Freedom petition already, calling for the withdrawal of the Stronger Futures bills in their current form. ...
The Stand for Freedom campaign video and petition, hosted on Change.org, can be viewed at: http://standforfreedom.org.au/ "
- News
Australian: New Aboriginal video campaign aims to overturn Northern Territory intervention
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/national-affairs/indigenous/new-aborigin...
6 Mar 12: "In a powerful video aimed at YouTube and social media, Dhalulu Ganambarr-Stubbs, a Yolngu scholar and artist from Yirrkala, Northeast Arnhem Land, says that in 2012 the Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory are suffering. ... Ms Ganambarr-Stubbs, a member of the Northern Territory's first Indigenous Affairs Advisory Council, is the latest voice in a concerted campaign against the Northern Territory intervention."
9 News: Scrap new NT intervention laws: groups
http://news.ninemsn.com.au/national/8430491/scrap-new-nt-intervention-la...
6 Mar 12: "A coalition of indigenous groups has called on the Gillard government to scrap the next phase of the Northern Territory intervention. ... Aboriginal leaders, including social justice commissioner Mick Gooda, have described the process as deeply flawed. Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation (ANTaR) and Our Generation have launched an online campaign, Stand for Freedom, calling for the draft laws to be scrapped. ... So far 5500 people have signed the online petition at www.standforfreedom.org.au/ "
- Videos
newsTracker: Prominent Yolngu artist speaks out against Stronger Futures
http://tracker.org.au/2012/03/prominent-yolngu-artist-speaks-out-against...
6 Mar 12: "A prominent Yolngu artist and scholar has spoken out against the government’s plans to extend the NT intervention for another ten years, saying that it has made her people criminals in their own lands. In the powerful video, Dhalulu Ganambarr-Stubbs states that the original intervention has failed Aboriginal people. ... Ms Ganambarr-Stubbs says in the video that the intervention had meant "we lots all control over our lives". ... The video accompanies an online petition urging the government to withdraw the legislation." Amy McQuire, editor of Tracker
Stand for Freedom:
VIDEO: Will You Stand For Freedom?
http://standforfreedom.org.au/
[Featuring musicians Uncle Archie Roach, John Butler, Mama Kin, Shellie Morris and Shane Howard.]
See Petition:
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...
- Related News
National Indigenous Radio Service: Rights advocacy group speaks out against Stronger Futures
http://www.nirs.org.au/news/latest-news/7002-rights-advocacy-group-speak...
2 Mar 12: "The Governments' Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory legislation continues to receive criticism after passing the Lower House earlier this week. The bill, which would see key measures of the NT Intervention expanded for another ten years, is now before the Senate who will vote on the bill after a Senate report is published mid-March. Australians for Native Title and Reconcilliation (ANTaR) says the bill is being rushed through Parliament with only limited community consultation."
See:
Stand for Freedom: There can be no reconciliation without justice: http://standforfreedom.org.au/
Our Generation: http://ourgeneration.org.au/
ANTaR (Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation): http://www.antar.org.au/
* PROPOSED STRONGER FUTURES LAWS "WILL KILL ABORIGINAL PEOPLE":
- Videos
Stronger Futures Forum held at Maningrida on 21 February 2012
NITV: http://www.nitv.org.au/fx-program.cfm?pid=6312D945-DFD1-0FE9-5A358ABD4B5...
'concerned Australians': http://www.concernedaustralians.com.au/
STICS: [scroll down page] http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/stronger-futures-legislation
"Aboriginal people from West, Central and East Arnhem Land give their views on the proposed Stronger Futures Legislation
Facilitator: Jeff McMullen
This video was produced by NITV (National Indigenous Television)"
- Background
NITV: Stronger Futures Forum: About the Forum
http://www.nitv.org.au/fx-program.cfm?pid=6312D945-DFD1-0FE9-5A358ABD4B5...
"Filmed in Maningrida, NT on the night of the Senate Committee hearings on the Stronger Futures legislation. This forum, hosted by Jeff McMullen, will discuss the policy in-depth with an all-Aboriginal audience. Stronger Futures upholds many of the controversial NT Emergency Response measures and will be debated in Federal Parliament during the Autumn sittings. ... Hosted by acclaimed television journalist Jeff McMullen the forum will hear from mob in the Top End, specifically Arnhem Land about the proposed extension of the Northern Territory Intervention for another 10 years."
- Article
"Stronger Futures will kill us"
Indymedia Australia: http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/04/%E2%80%9Cstronger-futures-will-kill-u...
STICS: http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/articles/stronger-futures-will-kill...
4 Mar 12: "The federal government’s special measures under the proposed Stronger Futures laws "will kill Aboriginal people", a forum in Maningrida, broadcast by National Indigenous Television (NITV), heard from an Elder. Elders and traditional owners from West, Central and East Arnhem Land came to the forum and vented many deep concerns about the legislation, already passed by the House of Representatives and soon to be decided by the Senate. "They’re using a different name, but the formula is the same [as the Intervention]. What this will do - it’s going to kill Aboriginal people. ... ""
* WRITE TO SENATORS RE STRONGER FUTURES LAWS:
- Actions
Stop the Intervention: Stronger Futures Legislation
http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/stronger-futures-legislation
"Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill 2011 and two related bills have passed through the Lower House and are due to go to the Senate very soon. The Senate Inquiry report is due 13 March 2012. ...
Please write to Senators: http://www.aph.gov.au/Senators_and_Members/~/link.aspx?_id=589097ED6DD44...
- Email addresses are: senator.lastname@aph.gov.au ... "
Stand for Freedom: There can be no reconciliation without justice:
Take Action
http://standforfreedom.org.au/take-action/
"The Stronger Futures legislation is opposed by Aboriginal people across the Northern Territory and civil society across the nation. We need to generate a mass movement to make the Government listen to their concerns. That Aboriginal people have the right to control their own futures; that freedom is the right of ALL Australians.
Let’s come together and stop Stronger Futures!
1. Sign the Petition
2. Share the campaign with others on Email, Facebook, and Twitter.
3. Write to your local Member of Parliament
* Find your local MP here: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda/find-your-local-mp.htm
* Write your own letter, or download the sample letter
* Make your voice heard!"
- Related News
7 News: Opposition to Stronger Futures Bill strengthens
http://au.news.yahoo.com/latest/a/-/latest/13096098/opposition-to-strong...
6 Mar 12: "Australia's peak public health body has urged a Senate committee to reject compulsory income management proposed under the Federal Government's Stronger Futures Bill. The bill, which replaces federal intervention legislation, is meant to build stronger futures for Indigenous people by tackling the areas of education, alcohol abuse and land reform. Public Health Association of Australia vice-president Vanessa Lee told a public hearing of the committee in Canberra that compulsory income management on social security allowances could have a detrimental effect on Indigenous Australians."
* NT INTERVENTION PANEL DISCUSSION BY DR JOHN FALZON, LYNETTE DE SANTIS AND ADAM GILES:
- Audio Discussion
ABC Radio National: RN Drive: Panel discussion: the Northern Territory intervention
ABC: http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/drive/panel-discussion3a-th...
Vinnies: http://blog.vinnies.org.au/the-northern-territory-intervention-panel-dis...
6 Mar 12: "The head of the St Vincent de Paul Society has launched a scathing attack on the federal government's plans for the next phase of the Northern Territory intervention. Dr John Falzon has told a senate committee examining the legislation that the federal government's actions were 'unconscionable', 'degrading', 'disempowering' and would go down in history as a 'source of shame for the Australian government'.
Guests:
* Dr John Falzon, Chief Executive Officer, National Council, St Vincent de Paul Society
* Lynette De Santis, Tiwi Islands Shire Council Mayor
* Adam Giles, Northern Territory shadow minister for Indigenous Affairs"
- Related News
newsTracker: Scrap NT intervention laws: Vinnies' chief
Tracker: http://tracker.org.au/2012/03/scrap-nt-intervention-laws-vinnies-chief/
Brisbane Times: http://news.brisbanetimes.com.au/breaking-news-national/scrap-nt-interve...
7 Mar 12: "The head of the St Vincent de Paul charity has launched a scathing attack on the federal government, saying the next phase of the Northern Territory intervention treats Aboriginal people as if they were nothing. ... St Vincent de Paul chief executive John Falzon on Tuesday joined a line-up of welfare, social justice and indigenous groups that have criticised the legislation and the government’s community consultation process. "This is unconscionable," he said, adding the Stronger Futures legislation was misnamed because it was so "inherently disempowering"."
- Related Speech
Stand for Freedom by Dr John Falzon
Eureka Street: http://www.eurekastreet.com.au/article.aspx?aeid=30272
STICS: http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/speeches/dr-john-falzon/28-2-12
1 Mar 12: "Dr John Falzon is the St Vincent de Paul Society National Council Chief Executive and a member of the Australian Social Inclusion Board. The above text is from a speech he gave at a rally outside Parliament House this week against the Stronger Futures legislation, which will extend and deepen some of the worst aspects of the NT Intervention."
* MORE STRONGER FUTURES LEGISLATION RELATED ARTICLES:
- Audio Interviews
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
A new voice for all Australians…
http://caama.com.au/caama-news-6-03-12
6 Mar 12: "The founder of a new national political party says it will offer Aboriginal people a real voice and other Australians an alternative to the two major parties. Maurie Ryan a veteran campaigner for Aboriginal people and their rights has been a strong and ongoing critic of the Northern Territory Intervention and continues to voice his concerns on the proposed Stronger Futures legislation. Mr Ryan told CAAMA radio that the Australian first Nations Political party will give his people a real voice for the first time… "
4ZZZ Brisbane 102.1 FM: Organisations and activists rally against 'Stronger Futures' legislation
http://www.4zzzfm.org.au/news/audio/2012/mar/01/organisations-and-activi...
1 Mar 12: "A variety of groups from Indigenous, human rights and community organisations joined together at Parliament house in Canberra on Tuesday for the Stand for Freedom rally against the ‘Stronger Futures’ bill that passed through the House of Representatives on Monday. ... Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney is a group committed to the repeal of the Northern Territory Intervention. Lauren Gallagher spoke to Paddy Gibson from STICS to find out more about Tuesday’s rally and concerns with the ‘Stronger Futures’ legislation."
- Audio
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
CAAMA Radio News – 7.03.12
http://caama.com.au/caama-radio-news-7-03-12
7 Mar 12: "The Gillard labor governments push for compulsory income management of Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory has drawn criticism from Australia’s peak representative public health body."
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
CAAMA Radio News 6-03-2012
http://caama.com.au/caama-radio-news-6-03-2012
6 Mar 12: "The chair of a Senate committee which still has to present its final report to Parliament on the Stronger futures consultation process in the Northern Territory says there is still huge confusion and pain in Aboriginal communities that needs to be addressed."
Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association:
CAAMA NEWS Mon 5-03-12
http://caama.com.au/caama-news-5-03-12
5 Mar 12: "The Federal Government Department which organised the consultation process about the proposed Stronger futures legislation for Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory .. has recieved heavy criticism following the disclosure that only two to three percent of meetings had been subjected to "quality assurance"."
- Videos
Stop the Intervention: 28 Feb 2012 Stronger Futures legislation Canberra protest:
Speeches and Video
http://stoptheintervention.org/past-events/28-feb-2012-stronger-futures-...
"* Rachel Siewert, Greens Senator
* Dr. John Falzon, CEO St Vincent De Paul National Council
* Jeff McMullen AM, Honorary CEO of Ian Thorpe’s Fountain for Youth
* Aunty Daphne
* Aunty Carol
* Paddy Gibson, STICS"
- News
Koori Mail: Intervention fury
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php?page=Current+Edition
7 Mar 12: "ABORIGINAL people are outraged that the House of Representatives has passed the proposed Stronger Futures legislation that will extend the Northern Territory intervention. The Government rammed the legislation through with Opposition support without considering a Senate report and its recommendations, due to be finalised by 13 March. Activists have called on the Senate to reject the bills. The National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples co-chairs Jody Broun and Les Malezer said they were disappointed with the haste."
Reportage: Stronger Futures Intervention, not so strong locals say
http://www.reportageonline.com/2012/03/intervention/
5 Mar 12: "The Stronger Futures Intervention now involves revoking welfare payments to parents who fail to send their children to school, but locals say such strategies aren’t the answer. Rosemary Hill reports. The Warlpiri people at Yuendumu have told the government they refuse to force their children to go to school while English-only teaching remains in place."
National Indigenous Times: Nicholson reveals plan to sell Town Camp, community land
http://www.nit.com.au/news.html
3 Mar 12: "Aboriginal Town Camps and community living areas would be sold off to private interests under the Stronger Futures legislation that extends the Northern Territory Intervention and which was pushed through the House of Representatives by the Labor, Liberal and National parties last Monday."
National Indigenous Times: Plan is racist: Maurie Ryan
http://www.nit.com.au/news/658-plan-is-racist-maurie-ryan.html
3 Mar 12: "Maurie Japarta Ryan, the leader of Australia's only Indigenous political party, First Nations, has told a Senate committee inquiring into the proposed Federal Government legislation to extend the Northern Territory Intervention that the proposed legislation was racist. Mr Ryan tore into the proposed legislation, telling the Senate committee the legislation should be scrapped and claims that it had been based... "
National Indigenous Times: Senate inquiry confirms Intervention consultation either didn’t work or didn’t happen, says Scullion
http://www.nit.com.au/news/665-senate-inquiry-confirms-intervention-cons...
3 Mar 12: "The Federal Opposition's spokesman on Indigenous Affairs, Nigel Scullion said the senate committee hearing at Ntaria, about 130 kilometres west of Alice Springs revealed what many have continued to claim about the proposed extension of the Northern Territory Intervention - members of the community had not been properly consulted by the Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Jenny Macklin and her officers."
* BACKGROUND TO 'STRONGER FUTURES' NEW NT INTERVENTION LEGISLATION:
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...
Stand for Freedom: There can be no reconciliation without justice:
http://standforfreedom.org.au/
Stop the Intervention: Stronger Futures Legislation
http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/stronger-futures-legislation
"Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill 2011 and two related bills have passed through the Lower House and are due to go to the Senate very soon. The Senate Inquiry report is due 13 March 2012."
Stop the Intervention: Stronger Futures Media Coverage
http://stoptheintervention.org/facts/stronger-futures-legislation/#Media-SF
Stop the Intervention: Stronger Futures: New compilation weblink -Petition -NITV Forum
http://www.stoptheintervention.org/uploads/files_to_download/Facts-Info/...
WGAR News: NITV Current Affairs present the Stronger Futures Forum shot on location in Maningrida (3 Mar 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/03/wgar-news-nitv-current-affairs-presen...
WGAR News: Press Conference on Stronger Futures legislation by Hon. Alastair Nicholson AO RFD QC (1 Mar 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/01/wgar-news-press-conference-on-stronge...
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...
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: 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/ ]
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: 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...
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...
Public hearing - Canberra, Tuesday 6 March 2012
Stronger Futures in the Northern Territory Bill 2011 and two related bills
http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate_Committee...
* "WA STOLEN WAGES OFFER 'CRUEL AND HEARTLESS' SAYS LEGAL SERVICE" GLW
- Statement
WA stolen wages offer 'cruel and heartless', says legal service
Green Left: http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/50261
Indymedia Australia: http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/07/stolen-wages-offer-a-%E2%80%98slap-in...
Indigenous Peoples: http://indigenouspeoplesissues.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=art...
7 Mar 12: "The Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia released the statement below on March 6. * * *
The Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia (ALSWA) has slammed the WA state government’s offer of up to $2000 to Aboriginal workers whose past wages were stolen by the state.
"This is a slap in the face and a cruel and heartless offer which offends the very notion of recompense," said ALSWA CEO Adjunct Professor Dennis Eggington.
"This is not just about stolen wages or pensions that were withheld, nor is it about coming up with an equitable scheme. This state’s economic power was built upon the backs of hard working, proud Indigenous men and women who had their hard earned wages withheld.
"To now offer these people such a paltry amount diminishes the contributions that our people have made. Any offer made must also ensure that monies are repaid in terms of today’s monetary value.""
- Videos
ABC: Government set for court over Indigenous wages
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-03-06/government-set-for-court-over-indi...
7 Mar 12: "A WA Government offer of $2000 to Indigenous people denied wages between 1905 and 1972 has been described as disgusting by the Aboriginal Legal Service."
ABC Indigenous: "Stolen wages" payments
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-03-06/government-announces-ex-gratia-pay...
Updated 6 Mar 12: "The Indigenous Affairs Minister, Peter Collier, has announced that ex-gratia payments will be made to Aboriginal people whose wages were taken from them. Between 1905 and 1972, successive governments held some Indigenous workers' wages in trust funds which the workers could not access. A taskforce recommended more than three years ago that action be taken to remedy the situation."
- News
newsTracker: WA Stolen Wages offer condemned as "mean-spirited"
http://tracker.org.au/2012/03/wa-govt-to-make-stolen-wages-reparations/
7 Mar 12: "The Aboriginal Legal Service of Western Australia has threatened to sue the Barnett government over its "cruel" offer to Stolen Wages victims. The West Australian government says it will pay reparations of up to $2000 each to Aboriginal people who lost out under the "stolen wages" regime imposed by past governments. ... But the offer has been condemned by the Aboriginal Legal Service of WA (ALSWA). CEO Dennis Eggington told the Australian newspaper that the offer was "cruel and heartless"."
* "WE ARE LUCKY BOB CARR WAS NOT APPOINTED INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS MINISTER!" GERRY GEORGATOS:
- Analysis / Opinion
Green Left: Bob Carr: 'I agree with Tony Abbott'
http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/50251
5 Mar 12: "Prime Minister Julia Gillard anointed former NSW premier Bob Carr as the foreign minister on March 2. It awaits the approval of a joint sitting of NSW parliament but for all intents and purposes, Carr has just been catapulted to the third-highest political post in the land after being out of politics since 2005. ... Carr said: "I agree with Tony Abbott and think his remarks entirely sensible. The Tent Embassy in Canberra says nothing to anyone and should have been quietly packed up years ago. The 'activists' who run it would be better off investing time in youth programs in indigenous communities. ... "" Peter Robson
Indymedia Australia: We are lucky Bob Carr was not appointed Indigenous Affairs Minister!
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/03/06/we-are-lucky-bob-carr-was-not-appoint...
6 Mar 12: "Former NSW premier, Bob Carr, autocratically selected by Prime Minister Julia Gillard, without it going to a vote of even the Cabinet, to fill the vacant Senate position meant Warren Mundine, who lobbied for the senatorial vacancy was overlooked - and who would have been the first Aboriginal federal parliamentarian in the hundred year history of the ALP. ... Further in his January 27 post, in reference to the Lobby restaurant incident Mr Carr did not mince his words about whom he thought was at fault and wrote, "And of course the block-headed demonstration sets back reconciliation and would seal the defeat for Aboriginal recognition in the constitution if a referendum were pending."" Gerry Georgatos
See:
WGAR News: Eyewitness accounts of the Tent Embassy protest on Invasion Day / Sovereignty Day (2 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/02/wgar-news-eyewitness-accounts-of-the-...
WGAR News: More on the Aboriginal Tent Embassy protest on Invasion Day (8 Feb 12)
[scroll down page] http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/08/wgar-news-four-actions-to-help-stop-t...
WGAR News: Tent Embassy protest interviews with Michael Anderson, Jeff McMullen, Chris Graham, etc (9 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/09/wgar-news-tent-embassy-protest-interv...
WGAR News: "The tent embassy: fact v fiction, black v white" by Chris Graham (20 Feb 12)
http://indymedia.org.au/2012/02/20/wgar-news-the-tent-embassy-fact-v-fic...
* BACKGROUND TO THE NORTHERN TERRITORY (NT) INTERVENTION:
Creative Spirits: Northern Territory Emergence Response (NTER) - "The Intervention": http://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/politics/northern-terr...
Tracker - NT Intervention: http://tracker.org.au/tag/nt-intervention/
Treaty Republic - NT Intervention: http://treatyrepublic.net/search/node/NT%20Intervention
The Greens: Rachel Siewert: Northern Territory Intervention: http://rachel-siewert.greensmps.org.au/portfolios/aboriginal-torres-stra...
CAAMA (Central Australian Aboriginal Media Association) - NT Intervention: http://caama.com.au/?s=NT+Intervention
STICS (Stop the Intervention Collective Sydney): http://stoptheintervention.org/
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/
Our Generation: http://ourgeneration.org.au/
Crikey - NT Intervention: http://www.crikey.com.au/topic/nt-intervention/
'concerned Australians': Without Justice there can be no Reconciliation: http://www.concernedaustralians.com.au/
New Matilda - northern territory intervention: http://newmatilda.com/tag/northern-territory-intervention
Darwin Aboriginal Rights Coalition: http://darwinaboriginalrights.wordpress.com/
Equality Rights Alliance: Women's Experience of Income Management in the Northern Territory: http://www.equalityrightsalliance.org.au/projects/womens-experience-inco...
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
Adelaide Stop the Intervention: http://www.stoptheintervention.com.au/
Central Land Council: The Australian Government Intervention 2007: http://www.clc.org.au/Media/issues/intervention/intervention_intro.html
WGAR (Working Group for Aboriginal Rights): http://wgar.wordpress.com/
* OTHER ARTICLES:
- Reportback
Treaty Republic: Community responds to snap closure of Aboriginal school
http://treatyrepublic.net/content/community-responds-snap-closure-aborig...
5 Mar 12: "A group of supporters met at Wominjeka Co-operative in Broadmeadows on the afternoon of Sunday March 4, 2012. They decided that the only action possible at the moment is to do everything they can to save the cultural area, existing buildings and artifacts (inside and outside the building). ... The closure of the school was a shock to everyone and school committee members were not even invited to the school meeting when staff were told of the closure in two weeks. The supporter group decided that instant action was required to allow time to fully analyse and consider the situation."
- Audio Interview
3CR Community Radio 855 AM: Podcasts
[scroll down page] http://www.3cr.org.au/podcast
Blazing Textbooks - 4 Mar 2012
[download program] http://pod.3cr.org.au/pod/3CRCast-2012-03-03-87642.mp3
4 Mar 12: "This week’s show focuses on the recent government announcement that Ballert Mooroop College, the only indigenous school in Melbourne, will be shut down in a fortnight. We talk with Aunty Barb Williams/Weston about what the school means to its students and the community, and how the education department has set about shutting it down."
- Analysis / Opinion
National Indigenous Times: Nyoongar deal smacks of strings attached
http://www.nit.com.au/opinion/642-nyoongar-deal-smacks-of-strings-attach...
3 Mar 12: "Co-written by Professor Len Collard, Nyoongar Whadjuk Traditional Owner (of the Swan River lands) and academic, who has had senior appointments at four of Perth's five universities), and Gerry Georgatos, PhD Law researcher in Australian Deaths in Custody, Masters in Human Rights, Masters in Social Justice, and a journalist with The National Indigenous Times."
- Media Releases
Greens Rachel Siewert: Perth to discuss Constitutional Recognition
http://rachel-siewert.greensmps.org.au/content/media-releases/perth-disc...
7 Mar 12: "Australian Greens Senator Rachel Siewert will join MP Ken Wyatt, Fred Chaney and Patrick Dodson tomorrow at the Constitutional Centre of WA to discuss the Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, as part of the Curtin Corner discussion series on public policy.
Senator Siewert says she is excited by the prospect of discussing the Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples recommendations with the people of Perth.
"The Panel has made a series of recommendations which embrace Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as a full and equal part of the Australian nation." [Senator Siewert said today.]"
Central Land Council: Opal roll out: Ban standard fuel in declared areas and save lives
http://www.clc.org.au/media-releases/article/opal-roll-out-ban-standard-...
1 Mar 12: "The Central Land Council is calling on Senator Scullion and MHR Warren Snowdon to support moves by the Greens Senator Rachel Siewert to legislate to ban the sale of standard unleaded fuels in declared zones.
CLC Director David Ross said the Opal roll-out had been a spectacular success and a fine example of how effective bipartisan action can be.
"Sadly we’re hearing that sniffing is still occurring in places where standard fuel is still available," he said."
- News
Koori Mail: Embassy bid for Brisbane after forum
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php?page=Current+Edition
7 Mar 12: "AN Aboriginal tent embassy is expected to be set up in Brisbane’s Musgrave Park this week, following a community forum on sovereignty at the weekend. About 70 people attended the gathering at the Jagera Arts Centre on Saturday to hear about the growing sovereignty movement and to receive a report back from the recent 40th anniversary celebrations of the original Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra. They also discussed the 'pros and cons' of native title."
Koori Mail: Non-sniffable petrol move wins support
[scroll down page] http://www.koorimail.com/index.php?page=Current+Edition
7 Mar 12: "INDIGENOUS organisations have thrown their support behind an Australian Greens move to promote the use of the non-sniffable Opal fuel. Greens senator Rachel Siewert introduced a private bill to Parliament last Thursday under which the sale of regular unleaded petrol would be banned in certain areas. It also would extend subsidies for non-sniffable fuel in those areas."
Green Left: Aboriginal sovereignty must be on the agenda, says Michael Anderson
http://www.greenleft.org.au/node/50262
7 Mar 12: "Anderson said Aboriginal people had never given up their sovereignty, that there had never been a defeat in declared war, that Aboriginal land had not been ceded and that the British crown had not asserted sovereignty over Aboriginal people. He gave illustrations from case law, including letters and legislation from colonial times, to show that Aboriginal people were not British subjects and were they considered such. He described recent legal efforts examine whether Australian courts have jurisdiction over Aboriginal people."
National Indigenous Radio Service: Bid to ban sniffable fuel receives support
http://www.nirs.org.au/news/latest-news/7004-bid-to-ban-sniffable-fuel-r...
6 Mar 12: "An alliance of Aboriginal medical organisations says it supports proposed legislation to ban sniffable fuel in parts of the Northern Territory. The Greens last week introduced legislation into Federal Parliament which would give the Commonwealth the power to regulate which fuels are sold in regional areas. John Paterson from the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance of the NT (AMSANT) says the low aromatic fuel Opal has helped reduce cases of severe psychological illnesses that can arise from sniffing regular fuel."
Socialist Alliance Western Australia: Tent embassy: sovereignty on the agenda
http://socialistallianceperth.blogspot.com.au/2012/03/tent-embassy-sover...
5 Mar 12: "Around fifty people attended a forum addressed by Michael Anderson at the Curtin Uni Aboriginal Studies Centre on March 5. Anderson is a Gamilaroi man, one of the original 4 founders of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra in 1972. The forum was organised by the Nyoongah Tent Embassy and followed a well-attended address Anderson had given at the embassy two days beforehand. Anderson argued that Aboriginal people had never given up their sovereignty - that there had never been a defeat in declared war, that the land hadn't been ceded, and that the British crown hadn't asserted sovereignty over Aboriginal people."
National Indigenous Times: Tent Embassy tug-o-war
http://www.nit.com.au/news/663-tent-embassy-tug-o-war.html
3 Mar 12: "The tug of war of confrontation between police and Tent Embassy supporters continues in Perth with police carrying out a further two raids on the Embassy to tear down tents and move cars. However, the Tent Embassy supporters have maintained their presence on Heirisson Island and declared they will not leave."
* UPCOMING ABORIGINAL RIGHTS EVENTS AROUND AUSTRALIA - 20 EVENTS FROM 8 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: Sun 11 March 2012: locations across Australia
National Day of Action to end uranium mining
Locations include:
Adelaide, Alice Springs, Cairns, Canberra, Darwin,
Hobart, Nimbin, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney
Our Land is Sacred: http://www.11march.com/our-land-is-sacred/
Event details: http://www.11march.com/
Event details: http://www.acfonline.org.au/get-involved/take-action/renewable-not-radio...
Event: Sat 17 March 2012: Prospect, SA
Amnesty International at the Prospect Fair
"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/28019/
Event: 21 March 2012: various locations internationally
International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
Event details: http://www.un.org/en/events/racialdiscriminationday/
Let's Fight Racism!: http://www.un.org/en/letsfightracism/
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
NIRS news: http://www.nirs.org.au/news/latest-news/6996-smaller-communities-want-ac...
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 29 March 2012: Sydney, NSW
Our Generation Film Screening
Part of Message Sticks Festival 2012
Discussion with Damien Curtis, Jeff McMullen,
Alec Doomadgee, Rosealee Pearson and John Pilger
Event details: http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/Message_sticks/highlights.aspx
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 30 March 2012: Sydney, NSW
Tent Embassy & Identity
Part of Message Sticks Festival 2012
Film: Ningla A-Na
Discussion with Gary Foley and Larissa Behrendt
Event details: http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/Message_sticks/highlights.aspx
Event: Sat 31 March 2012: Sydney, NSW
What's the Fuss in the Kimberley?
Part of Message Sticks Festival 2012
Film: Old Country New Country
Q&A with George Negus Stephen Pigram,
Mitch Torres and Albert Wiggan
Event details: http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/Message_sticks/highlights.aspx
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: Sat 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)
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