Oz 2007

This is year 2007, and our conventional neo-liberal politicians continue to fail to address their lack of respect for the Australian Aboriginal populace. Why?
The legislation over the 'Aboriginal communities problems' was a kneejerk reaction by our Federal govt to media exposure of a report on social standards in remote Aboriginal communities.
Its a hugely complex issue that needs much careful examination - we even have some Aboriginal community leaders saying it is a required move (the legal changes). I think the majority of Oz see it (the legislation) as a necessary evil - we're a bit of the 'nanny state' in mentality. Those of critical thought regarding human rights are well & truly in the minority. The immediate critical response was to state the obvious - It wont work 'from the top down' - the communities in question need consultation & this is, of course, true.
We have yet to see the impact of the legislation. Anecdotally, people are deserting the relevant communities when informed of an impending 'visit' and either returning later or moving elsewhere permanently. Like a lot of Oz law, its only as effective as its enforcement, and our relatively small population over this large continent often negates this. I believe that our conventional legal system is well equipped to resolve the more severe criminal problems (hard drug supply, alcohol supply to minors etc) – it is merely under equipped to deal with the cultural differences.
A plan requires implementation to gain the respect for non-violent, non self-destructive life in communities seriously affected by social breakdown. And to provide the ‘seeds’ for meaningful life to take hold for those denied as much, no matter what the racial background.
The Humanist Movement, through the Centre of Cultures, would like to see local forums organised for the highlighting of local issues, by local people. Without communal recognition, and consensus regarding problems there can be no concise action. The catalyst for this is in the communal discussion.
With Peace,
& Cheers!
Scott