Upholding the sacred duty: Australians and the referendum vote on constitutional indigenous representation

I. Creation of a body known as the "Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice."

II. Authorization for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to present representations to Parliament and the Executive Government regarding matters concerning Indigenous communities.

III. Empowerment of the Parliament, subject to the Constitution, to enact laws governing the composition, functions, powers, and procedures of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

Earlier this year (2023), a bill regarding the Indigenous voice was introduced in the lower house. After extensive debates, it passed on June 19 and subsequently received approval from the Senate.

This progression has initiated a national referendum on the Indigenous Voice, with the Prime Minister expected to announce a potential date in either October or November of this year.

The annual Garma Festival took place from August 4 to 7. In this incredible festival, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese not only attended but also aligned himself with the Yes23 campaign, further endorsing the cause.

In order to get maximum votes for 'YES' in this referendum, indigenous leaders and active youth have started an online campaign called 'YES23'. www.yes23.com.au has been created for this purpose. On this website, the campaigners have started various campaigning activities. People's opinions are also being collected for the referendum. Also, financial support is being collected from people for campaigning. Australians can visit the mentioned website and support the campaign.

As usual, White extremist leader Ms. Pauline Hanson strongly opposes the referendum. She claims that the current government wants to establish a new black state in Australia. Ms. Hanson's stance reveals a failure to acknowledge the sacrifices made by Indigenous people for the benefit of all who arrived on this land, including foreigners like Pauline Hanson's forefathers. Senior white Australians who still love British imperialism are also opposing the referendum.

Interestingly, Liberal leader Peter Dutton declined to attend this year's Garma Festival. The primary focus of the festival was to support the 'YES' campaign in the referendum. Dutton's decision to skip the event was disheartening and serves as a reflection of the Liberal Party's stance on the constitutional voice and rights of Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander Australians.

On the other hand, the multicultural people who have migrated from different parts of the world to Australia are in favour of this referendum and intend to vote 'YES'. The multicultural community has recognized the rights and voice of indigenous peoples since its inception.

Based on input from members of multicultural communities and Australian youth, it is apparent that a significant majority of young individuals and nearly all those from diverse cultural backgrounds are in favour of a 'YES' vote in the referendum. This sentiment stems from their deep understanding of the intrinsic value of the land, having themselves migrated to Australia in search of a better, safer, and more secure life for both the present and future generations. Consequently, those born or raised in Australia from these backgrounds recognize the Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander ownership.

The Fijian and Tongan communities, sharing a heritage with Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander backgrounds, are expected to vote 'YES', as are ethnic groups including Indonesian, Malaysian, Sri Lankan, Papua New Guinean, and other Islanders. I believe, the support to referendum and vote for 'YES' is going to be an X-factor for its success.

The success of the 'YES' vote in the upcoming referendum will undoubtedly enhance Australia's international reputation. Additionally, this achievement will bolster Australia's future endeavours, such as its campaign to secure a seat on the United Nations Security Council.