I have not yet posted on Aboriginal issues. Firstly, because racism and the conditions facing so many Aboriginal people are issues I feel passionate about - passionate beyond words. Secondly, Aboriginal people prefer to speak for themselves and who am I - a member of an ethnic majority who is a substantial part of the problem.This report begins to say things which, if built upon, could bring change. Both sides of politics seem to indicate they want to tell things like they are. I want this nation to go further. Let us begin by acknowledging, confessing that we are a nation which has a significant racist and bigoted component in its national character. I am not saying that we are all racists, all bigots. I am saying that we have, in our history, given substantial play to racism and bigotry in public policy and that such racism and such bigotry has not been completely rooted out of the national psyche and character.
I believe that if we admit to this proposition and look it squarely in the face, face up to flaws in our national character which have been cruel to other human beings, then we might be able to move forward. We might be able to listen closely to the stories of others, listen to and acknowledge the expression of their feelings. We might at long last be able to say sorry and to demonstrate that sorry in meaningful reconciliation.
Then change will come in public policy and the lives of all Australians.
