I acknowledge First Nations people who have never ceded sovereignty of this land, as the traditional owners and custodians of Australia.

 

I acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures have survived the long-lasting effects of invasion and injustices of the past.

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I acknowledge the substantial disadvantage which Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continue to suffer. I also acknowledge the strength and resilience of First Nations people.

 

This acknowledgement is heartfelt.

 

I have seen the aftermath of invasion and dispossession on contemporary Aboriginal life, having lived and worked on an Aboriginal community for 2 1/2 years and worked with Aboriginal people in the Northern Territory for 20 years.

 

This motivates me to act to tackle this legacy of disadvantage and racism.

 

Through this statement, my personal discussions and my art, I commit to encouraging dialogue to promote truth telling.

 

I commit to supporting First Nations people aspirations presented by 'The Uluru Statement from the Heart'.

 

I yearn for Australia to embrace and celebrate Aboriginal knowledge and culture as well as respect of land, to shape Australia's future.