UPDATE: The Victorian Parliament has just passed a groundbreaking Statewide Treaty, marking a pivotal moment in Australia’s history for Aboriginal rights. Today, July 15, 2023, marks the dawn of a new era, as advocates and allies unite in recognition of this historic agreement.
During the session, Member of Parliament Sheena Watt delivered an impassioned speech, emphasizing the profound significance of this treaty for her community and the broader Aboriginal population. “What this means to my people is almost beyond words,” Watt stated, reflecting on the deep connection to culture and heritage that spans over 60,000 years.
This treaty represents a culmination of efforts dating back to 2016, when the Victorian government began consultations with the Aboriginal Treaty Working Group. Since then, significant milestones have been achieved, including the formation of the Victorian Treaty Advancement Commission in 2018 and the establishment of the Yoorrook Justice Commission in 2021, Australia’s first truth-telling commission to address historical injustices.
Watt highlighted that today is not just about acknowledgment but also about action. “We must give Aboriginal Victorians a say in the processes of law and policymaking,” she asserted, stressing the importance of self-determination and justice in closing the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities.
The treaty is seen as a critical step toward healing and reconciliation. It aims to address historical injustices, such as the removal of children from their families, and to create pathways for better health, education, and housing outcomes for Aboriginal people. “Today we join together in the spirit of healing and reconciliation,” Watt said, urging all members of Parliament to embrace this opportunity for progress.
In an emotional appeal, Watt shared her personal journey, including a recent reunion with her grandmother in Mooroopna, which symbolizes the enduring ties of family and culture that have been historically disrupted. “The hurt and pain cannot be a burden we bear alone,” she remarked, thanking those who have bravely shared their stories to support the treaty’s foundation.
As the Parliament moves forward, Watt made it clear that this treaty is not merely symbolic but a call to action. “Treaty is not just words on a page; it is how we face the truth of our past and turn it into a shared strength,” she stated, inviting all Victorians to walk alongside Aboriginal communities in this transformative journey.
This historic day will not only be remembered for its significance but also for its potential to redefine relationships between Aboriginal people and the Victorian government. As the treaty negotiations continue, the focus now shifts to the implementation of this agreement and the promise of a fairer, more just future.
As the world watches, the question remains: how will history remember those in power today? The Statewide Treaty heralds a new chapter, and it is a moment of hope and determination for many.
For ongoing updates and the full transcript of Sheena Watt’s speech, visit the Victorian Parliament Hansard.
