Treaty now

Nathan Sentance

“I just want a future for my grandchildren. A future where they are free. A future which is sustainable.”

These words were said by one of the Uncles in the meeting that took place over June 23 to 26 at the historic Aboriginal Tent Embassy across the road from old Parliament House on Ngunnawal country. This meeting was a response to the recent statement that came out of Yulara as well as to protest and discuss the push for constitutional recognition. 

Over the four very cold days, many Uncles and Aunties told stories about how Recognise and others involved in advocating for constitutional recognition have not properly consulted with community and have purposely left out voices of grassroots organisations and individuals. Many stated that any consultation or discussions that had taken place were just to manufacture consent. Another example of things being done to our people, not with our people.

Concerns regarding constitutional recognition have been voiced ever since the arrival of the campaign, with many stating that its only purpose is to placate us and that it's meaningless and offers no real change. Or worse, it's an obstacle to a treaty between the First Nations of this land mass and the British government because you cannot ask for a treaty if you're already property of the Crown.

The more things change…

The push for treaty isn't something new. I remember my dad wearing a “treaty let's get it right” shirt in the 90s. It's something that's been discussed since the British invaded. So it is understandable why people are asking, "Where's the treaty? And who benefits from constitutional recognition?" 

Because of the timing of the meeting, other issues were also discussed. Such as the Adani mine, something many First Nations people find offensive. While all our lore and knowledge differs from one another, there is a commonality between many of the First Nations and that is to treat country like kin and respect it as it provides for you. That's how First Nations people of this land mass have thrived for 50–80 thousand years. In only the short time of 230 years or so, much damage has been done to the land without any thought of sustainability or how actions impact this unique land. Destruction of the environment is especially devastating to First Nations people as much of our knowledge and culture is derived from the land. Additionally, as one of the Aunties said, “if climate change continues, our treaty won't matter to our descendants as we'll all be dead”. As a result, there was talk that if treaty discussions were to be had, land management in regards to First Nations conservation practices should be part of them.

The Greens are the party most actively fighting those who want to continue the destruction of country and as such would be considered allies by many First Nations people. However, as can been seen the constitutional recognition process, for the Greens to truly be a party that embodies Aboriginal Rights, it needs to ensure it consults with First Nations communities, from high profile to grass roots and value our input.

Nathan Sentance is a proud Wiradjuri librarian and unionist.