Murris rally for Referendum Day
By Bill Mason
BRISBANE — "May 27, 1967, represented a significant first step towards genuine reconciliation", Murri Watch president Sam Watson told a rally of more than 600 Aborigines and white supporters at the Roma Street Forum here on May 27.
The rally, under the title, "30 Years of What?", was part of a national day of action to commemorate three decades since the referendum to confirm full citizenship rights for Aborigines was passed.
"1997 is a different time, but the same challenge lies before us", Watson told the rally. "We now have a new school of thought: blame the victim. Blacks and Asians are being blamed for unemployment.
"It's now time for us to stand up and be counted. We are fighting for future generations."
Other Aboriginal speakers called for improved health and housing, land rights and an end to racism. They also called for Australia's true history to be told, including the murders, rapes and generations of children stolen from parents.
Australian Indigenous People's Party representative Norman Johnson warned, "Mr Howard, if you're concerned about your Olympics, give us a reason not to demonstrate".
Following the rally, the demonstrators marched through city streets to Musgrave Park for a family gathering and festival.
On the Sunday prior to the Referendum Day rally, some 4000 people attended a Community Rally Against Racism in Queens Park, Ipswich, to protest against racism and the activities of local federal MP Pauline Hanson.
The colourful rally and festival drew together members of the Aboriginal and Asian migrant communities, as well as thousands of anti-racist residents of Ipswich and nearby Brisbane.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Jim Soorley accused Hanson of "spewing out her anger on those who are least able to cope with it".
Other speakers at the rally included Chinese community leader Michael Choi, Pastor John Vitale, Jewish community representative Laurie Rosenblum and Aboriginal leaders.
The audience were also treated to Chinese dragon dancers, Aboriginal dancers and the popular Aboriginal group Aim 4 More.