Welcome to the voices of multicultural Australia. In this collection, we bring together diverse voices from across the Victorian landscape, each sharing their unique views on the topic of the Voice referendum, set for October 14. Through this mosaic of perspectives, we aim to shed light on the rich tapestry of ideas and opinions that make up Australia’s multicultural fabric. Let’s hear them.
Gurinder Kaur
President, Sikh Community Connections
The Voice to Parliament referendum, aims at recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of Australia and establishing an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice, is a crucial step towards reconciliation and justice. This proposal not only acknowledges the historical injustices faced by Indigenous communities but also represents a significant stride towards genuine reconciliation. The establishment of the Voice allows Indigenous Australians to have a say in policies and decisions that directly impact their lives. It fosters greater inclusion, representation, and empowerment, ensuring that their unique perspectives and needs are considered in the political process. This contributes to a more equitable and harmonious multicultural Australia.
In a multicultural society like Australia, this referendum sends a powerful message of unity and respect for diverse cultures. By affirming the rights and recognition of the First Peoples, it sets a precedent for honouring all cultural backgrounds and promoting inclusivity. Embracing this change is a vital step in building a fairer and more inclusive society that respects and values the contributions of all its citizens, regardless of their background. Voting “yes” in this referendum is a vote for a more just, inclusive, and harmonious Australia.
Professor Andrew Gunstone
Associate Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Reconciliation
Reconciliation in Australia is often discussed in terms of relationships between Indigenous peoples and Anglo-Celtic peoples. However, this ignores the importance of also understanding reconciliation through the lens of multiculturalism. The National Centre for Reconciliation, Truth, and Justice at Federation University recognises this importance and has recently partnered with the Victorian Government to create the Pathways to Reconciliation – Activating Multicultural Victoria project, which aims to significantly engage multicultural Australia in reconciliation matters.
An essential reconciliation matter at the moment is the upcoming constitutional referendum on the First Nations Voice to Parliament. Over the past six months, I have spoken at numerous events around Australia on the importance of the Voice. At these events, I have had conversations with many members of diverse multicultural communities about the Voice. It is clear from these conversations that multicultural communities understand the importance of First Nations being able to provide advice to Parliament on matters that directly impact their communities.
Shirley Hynes
Local Co-Captain of the Yes23/Latrobe electorate campaign. A long-time political activist for social justice and community wellbeing
I support the Yes Voice for the referendum. I myself am of an Australian settler background of six generations. I think it must be difficult for the multicultural communities to be clear about what the referendum is all about, particularly those who may have, more recently, arrived in Australia. In the first instance, it involves only residents with voting rights.
It is important for people from multicultural backgrounds to understand that a successful Yes vote in the referendum will take nothing away from people who are not Indigenous Australians. However, as a first step towards equity and equality, it may be the beginning of a new status across the Australian community and governments for the three percent of indigenous Australians who are disadvantaged on every measure of wellbeing.
Nisar Ahmad
Cultural Advisor and Interpreter with ADF in Afghanistan
I arrived in Australia in 2014, and since 2021, I have had the privilege of leading The Afghan LEE Association in Victoria as Chairperson. As a firm believer in the importance of community voices, I wholeheartedly support our First Nation peoples. It is their fundamental right to have a say in decisions that affect their lives, children, and future. It is an essential and fundamental right for any community to have a voice in decisions that directly impact their lives. Our indigenous community possesses a deep understanding of what is best for them, their children, and their future. Therefore, without a doubt, I will be casting my vote with a resounding ‘Yes’ in favour of the Voice to Parliament initiative.
Thuch Ajak
Community leader and the founder of United African Farm
I wholeheartedly support the Voice to Parliament initiative because I believe it’s the right thing to do for a better and fairer Australia for all.
In my view, the Voice to Parliament is not just a matter of preference but a moral obligation. It represents a crucial step toward building a more equitable and inclusive Australia where everyone’s voice, regardless of their background or heritage, deserves to be heard and valued in decisions that shape our nation’s future.
This initiative aligns perfectly with the fundamental principles of democracy and justice. It acknowledges that indigenous communities have a unique understanding of their needs, aspirations, and challenges, making their input indispensable.
I envision an Australia where diversity is celebrated, and where the collective wisdom of all its people is harnessed for the betterment of society. The Voice to Parliament is a beacon of hope, lighting the way toward a fairer and more united nation.
I am not just a supporter of this initiative; I am a passionate advocate for a brighter, more inclusive Australia where every voice contributes to the nation’s progress.
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Diverse voices from multicultural Australia express strong support for the Voice to Parliament referendum, emphasising reconciliation, unity, & inclusion. 🗳️🤝 #VoiceToParliament #MulticulturalAustralia #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/VC5C1lpb5r
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