RE: Genuine outcomes for Yolngu communities
The NT Government is now providing an emergency response to Volatile Substance Abuse in many communities in Arnhem Land. I know that sniffing is an act of self-harm or self-medication. It follows the breakdown of Yolngu culture – balanda culture coming over the top of Yolngu culture – imposing and assimilating. Leaders in many Arnhem Land communities have been grappling with this issue for some time, but we have not had any resources to solve this problem. Power, authority and resources to solve this problem need to be given to the Yolngu communities and Yolngu authorities.
I come from Arnhem Land, I am a Yolngu Leader and I am the elected representative for Nhulunbuy and yet the Government are not providing information or consulting with me in a meaningful way, so that I can empower Yolngu communities with information. I have asked the Minister for Health:
What is the process for children being taken for treatment? What are the facilities that are being used for treatment, how long does treatment take? And are families staying with children for the duration of the treatment? What is the process for removal of lead from the blood? Can this process happen in communities?
I am not getting answers to these questions. If I have the information I can convey it in Yolngu Matha with cultural understanding to communities who know and trust me.
I want to see happy, healthy children living in communities. I know the way to achieve this is to allow the Yolngu elders to solve the problems. We are sovereign people and we have a right to determine our future. I want Governments of all levels to act with diplomacy. Come and find the authorities, go camp to camp, and engage in diplomatic discussions with other nations.
I don’t want to get caught up in silly ‘politics’, I want genuine outcomes for communities. I am one of the best resources the Government can use to help give critical information to communities and get feedback in my Electorate. The people know me, and I know the people very well- this is why they voted for me because they have real trust in me. If the Government want to genuinely be part of ‘community led’ responses, start by working with myself and other leaders.
10 years since the Federal Government Intervention and everyone needs to remember that we experience the failings of that invasion every day. My message is: when you come to the Nhulunbuy Electorate make contact with me, I can assist you to have a greater understanding of the community and I will work with you to achieve genuine outcomes. This is a respectful process that goes two ways- solving problems together.
Yours Sincerely
Yingiya Mark Guyula MLA Djirrikaymirr
Georgina Gartland
