A MALLEE sustainability group has publicly endorsed the ‘yes’ campaign.
Sustainable Living in the Mallee adopted a statement of support on constitutional recognition at its general meeting on August 30.
“After reflecting on our organisational values, and how they sit alongside our work to foster sustainable prosperity in our region, Sustainable Living in the Mallee wholeheartedly supports voting ‘yes’ in this referendum,” chairperson Jana Sarantis said.
“Our group has discussed the issue on a number of occasions and members have followed the campaign over many months.
“As part of our statement of support, we have distributed information on constitutional recognition, Voice to Parliament and the Uluru Statement from the Heart. We encourage the whole community to get informed. We have our statement of support and other references on our Facebook page.”
The Statement of Support has been created by a Coalition of Climate and Environmental peak organisations.
It reads: “We stand together with a movement of over two million Australians whose commitment to a healthy climate and thriving environment is rooted in the shared values of justice, equality and fairness. By writing ‘yes’, we support a pathway for meaningful transformative change. This referendum calls upon us to reflect upon our colonial history and envision a future where First Nations justice, truth telling and Treaty help us move toward a brighter future together.”
Treasurer Peta Thornton said by voting ‘yes’, the nation could establish a permanent representative body “that boldly advocates for the needs and aspirations of First Nations people”.
“It will enhance our democracy by providing better representation for the First Nations in this country,” Ms Thornton said.
“It’s about time the Constitution properly reflects Australia’s real history.
“The Voice, protected by the constitution, will become a respected institution will hopefully bring the substantive and transformative change that is long overdue.
“Once or twice in a lifetime you get an opportunity like this to change the Nation for the better.
“It feels good to be involved in something that is bigger than yourself.”
