Introduction by Croakey: While many people and organisations work towards developing health systems and services that are more culturally safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, this cannot be achieved in isolation of other systems and workplaces also making change.
The disrespect showed in Federal Parliament this week by One Nation senators – in deliberately turning their backs during an Acknowledgement of Country in the Senate – raises many concerns, including around occupational health and safety for First Nations MPs, staffers and other Parliamentary employees.
In a statement marking the start of the 48th Parliament, Reconciliation Australia urged a return to non-partisan support in progressing reconciliation and justice for First Nations peoples.
“We are pleased that both the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition applauded the sentiments in Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan’s Welcome to Country during the opening of Federal Parliament on 22 July,” the statement said.
“Sussan Ley’s comments that the Welcome to Country should ‘set the tone for the next parliament’, and the Prime Minister’s suggestion that the ceremony is an opportunity for parliamentarians to ’embrace and show a profound love of home and country’ are hopeful signs that the rancorous division seen during the 2023 Referendum and this year’s election campaign may be waning.”
Below, First Nations Labor MPs respond to the actions of One Nation senators Tyron Whitten, Warwick Stacey, Malcolm Roberts and Pauline Hanson, with more commentary below their statement.
Statement from First Nations Labor MPs
We are deeply disappointed by the deliberate act of disrespect shown by One Nation senators who entered the chamber for the Acknowledgement of Country, not to participate in a spirit of respect, but to turn their backs in protest.
No senator is required to be present during the Acknowledgement. But to show up solely to mock it is a stunt that disrespects First Nations peoples and the values of this Parliament.
Acknowledgement of Country is a simple gesture of respect. It recognises the truth of this land and the unbroken connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to it.
Australians made their views clear at the last election. They rejected division and culture wars. They want a Parliament that listens, includes and governs with decency.
We urge all senators to reflect on the impact of their conduct, and consider the example they set for our democracy and for communities across the country.
Signed
Senator Malarndirri McCarthy – Northern Territory
Other commentary
Geoff Kitney is a former political correspondent and foreign correspondent.
Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Violet Sheridan reminded parliamentarians that walking on Ngunnawal Country comes with responsibility, according to a National Indigenous Times report on the Welcome to Country ceremony marking the Parliament’s opening.
“It is not just about being here, It is about caring for this land,” she said.
“As part of this Welcome, I offer you spiritual protection and safe passage. May you all walk gently, listen and carry the spirit of this Country with you. May your journey on Ngunnawal country be of understanding, respect and shared purpose. Guided by the values of care, connection and community.”
See Croakey’s archive of articles on cultural safety
