All Victorians, regardless of their background, can now make submissions to the state’s truth-telling inquiry.
Today the Yoorrook Justice Commission extended an invitation to non-Indigenous people, inviting them to make submissions on past or ongoing injustice experienced by First Peoples.
Submissions were previously only open to Indigenous Victorians.
“Yoorrook has heard powerful evidence from First Peoples about the systemic racism, injustice and harm caused by the state against them and their families,” Yoorrook chairperson Eleanor Bourke said.
“Often this involved reliving traumatic experiences and came at a significant personal toll.
“Now it is time for all Victorians to play their part in the truth telling process – truth telling must be a two-way street.”
Submissions can include stories of interactions with First Peoples when Victoria was first settled, including relationships between Indigenous people and settlers.
It can also include information taught in school about First Peoples’ history, culture and experiences.
Submissions can be made by individuals, families or groups.
“Every story, record and historical document helps build the body of evidence needed to create transformational change for First Peoples,” Professor Bourke said.
“Coming together to acknowledge past injustice and resolve our differences is an important part of the healing process.”
Victoria’s truth-telling inquiry, the first of its kind in Australia, has spent months hearing evidence from First Peoples, government and other organisations.
It’s scheduled to run to June 2025 and will make recommendations to government.
AAP
