“WE have always been pushing for recognition for our mob and for equality in the community – now it is time for us to be recognised nationally in the constitution.”
This was the statement made by Bunbury’s Goomburrup Aboriginal Corporation in the lead-up to the Journey to Recognition walk which will reach the city next Wednesday.
The event is an epic relay across the country to build community support to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the constitution.
It started in Melbourne on the eve of Sorry Day, May 26 2013, and has so far travelled more than 15,800 kilometres across parts of Victoria, South Australia, Northern Territory and Western Australia, stopping at towns and communities along the way.
Goomburrup representative Lera Bennell said being recognised in the constitution was important because her ancestors had lived on this land for 40,000 years.
“It will help many people who have been excluded to feel included and valued,” Ms Bennell said.
“This is the next step in reconciling our past and it’s just the right thing to do.
“I feel like I will be carrying on the legacy of my grandfather, my mother and father and my cousins, who have always pushed for a fairer nation and for recognition.”
Bunbury people will be invited to join the walk from Bicentennial Square to the Wardandi Memorial Park from 10am on Wednesday, March 12.
For more information go to recognise.org.au
