500 years marked in Melbourne

Issue 

500 years marked in Melbourne

MELBOURNE — In an evocative ceremony, members of the Yarra Yarra tribe on October 11 welcomed Domingo Colicoi, a Mapuche representative from the All Lands Council in Chile.

With traditional dances, songs and instruments, including digeridoos, they welcomed him to their land, and bade him safe conduct during his visit. Moved, Domingo Colicoi thanked them in Spanish, and in song in the Mapuche language, offering them strength and courage in their continued struggle.

These Koori people said they looked to the 500 years of survival and resistance of the Mapuche for inspiration.

The Melbourne committee for the 500 Years of Indigenous, Black and Popular Resistance, El comité 500 años de resistencia indigena, negra, y popular, organised many events during the week.

The activities began on Sunday, with an entire day of programming on "the 500 years" on Melbourne's popular community radio station, 3CR. Held simultaneously was a successful radiothon to raise money for a symbolic Australian "Ship to Cuba", to be loaded with wheat and other donations.

On October 12, there was a rally in City Square, with Aboriginal speakers and poets from both continents.

Other events included a writer's tour, a ceramic installation, a patchwork quilt, a theatre program and a speaking program.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.