Posted by Kevin Bates Aboriginal life-expectancy, health-care and education possibilities are still among the worst in the world - when one compares their general circumstances with those of indigenous Canadians and New Zealanders for example, we see that we lag far behind - despite all the noble rhetoric that accompanied the Mabo decision. We rejoice that Land Rights are now integral to Australian consciousness. I still puzzle though,over how to respond to the red-neckery I often hear from folk who have had violent, frightening or other negative experiences with Aboriginal people. They often then paint the whole Aboriginal community with the same brush of fear and self-justifying anger. Likewise those who jibe at the educadtional "perks" enjoyed by Aboriginal children in some quarters which tend to make non-indigenous children feel left out and second-rate. It's really hard for them to see a bigger picture - and so their racist fears continue unabated. We have moved, but we have much to do so that justice, health and dignity are more generally the experience of our first people and so that that wisdom and justice mark our consciousness rather than self-preservation and its burdensome friends!
on June 4, 2002, 2:03 pm
Yesterday we saw celebrations all around the country marking the 10th anniversary of the High Court's Mabo decision. This landmark in our legal history has certainly changed the consciousness of many Australians, has hardened the hearts of others, and according to much that is being written around the subject this week, has left Aboriginal people with not a lot to show for it.
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