‘Unsung heroes—closing the gap by leading their way’ is the theme for this year’s NAIDOC Week, and celebrates the quiet achievers in the Indigenous community, both now and in the past.
Tribunal President Graeme Neate said this year’s theme was commendable because it recognised those people who have contributed so much to their communities while often taking little credit for themselves.
Tribunal President Graeme Neate.
The 2010 NAIDOC Week poster, by Sheree Blackley. The artwork depicts an Aboriginal mother who is an 'unsung hero' leading her children through example, showing that actions can speak louder than words.
“There have been many unsung heroes in native title processes over the past 16 years,” Mr Neate said.
“Indigenous elders from around Australia have played a vital role by providing invaluable evidence of their people’s connection to country,” he said.
“As a result, parties have understood and respected that connection and agreed to determinations that native title exists, or have negotiated other agreements.
“In some cases, without their memories, stories and the ability to show the Court places of cultural significance, Indigenous communities may not have been able to prove their ongoing traditional link with areas of land and waters.
“Many of these unsung heroes have not lived to see the outcome of their contribution, or may not have been recognised sufficiently for their role in the native title process.
“This year’s NAIDOC Week theme provides an opportunity to acknowledge their commitment to improving the future for their communities and to helping 'close the gap' between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.”
Mr Neate said that the legacy of these many unsung heroes is the recognition of exclusive or non-exclusive native title rights for their communities for generations to come.
“This contribution has also led to a greater awareness and understanding across the broader Australian community of the strong heritage and culture of Indigenous people,” he said.
“NAIDOC Week is an ideal time to remember and honour these unsung heroes and acknowledge their contribution to Australian life and to native title in particular.”
• NAIDOC Week runs from 4–11 July. Use the links on this page to find out more about NAIDOC Week. |