Time for true reconciliation in Tasmania: Aug 9, 1-2pm

Pic: of Bill Lawson

TASMANIA will be the last State in Australia to have its own council affiliated with Reconciliation Australia when the organisation launches locally next month.

Convenor Bill Lawson said the Reconciliation Council of Tasmania was about building meaningful and trusting relationships between the wider Tasmanian community and the Aboriginal community.

“Within Tasmania, I believe that we need reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Tasmanians as well as between Indigenous and Indigenous Tasmanians as there are obvious tensions across Tasmania’s Aboriginal communities,” he said.

Mr Lawson said that the tide was turning, with greater awareness and support for Indigenous matters and Aboriginal culture.

“The rise and rise of Indigenous issues is everywhere to be seen. Importantly too, awareness is also rising about Indigenous disadvantage.

“I yearn for greater friendship and trust between all Tasmanians. In my view, the time has truly come to do this.”

On August 9, a date recognised as the United Nations Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, buses from Scottsdale, Smithton and Huonville will descend on Hobart for the launch of the Reconciliation Council of Tasmania launch at Macquarie Point.

The buses will collect reconciliation riders en route, reminiscent of Charles Perkins’ ‘Freedom Rides’ in NSW in the 60’s which were instrumental in raising awareness for the successful 1967 referendum.

Mr Lawson said it would be a historic day and encouraged all Tasmanians, whatever their background, to attend the launch from 1-2pm.

For more information and updates: https://www.facebook.com/ReconciliationTasmania/
Emma Hope