I come to you with a plea rooted in Equality, Inclusiveness, Respect and Honour. As a proponent for recognition of our aboriginal people, I am advocating for a public holiday that pays homage to our traditional land owners, our First Nations people. Our histories, our stories, our culture are deeply intertwined with theirs, and hence, it is only fair that we respect and acknowledge their contributions to the land we all call home.

The day of the annual Naidoc march, which itself is a symbol of recognition and celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, serves as the ideal date for such a holiday. This is not just about a day off work, but an opportunity for all Australians to join collectively in understanding, respect and celebration of our foundations.

The sad truth is that the Indigenous Australians, our First Nations people, make up 2.8% of the population, but sadly, they constitute over 28% of our prison population (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2020). The social disadvantage and discrimination that has resulted in this shocking statistic is symptomatic of a larger issue, the lack of appropriate representation and acknowledgement within our society.

By establishing this public holiday, we not only honour our elders, past, present and future but challenge these imbalances and past policies, and take essential steps towards social equality. 

The time for change is now. Let's honour our past, celebrate our present and shape an inclusive future. Sign this petition to support the instatement of a National Holiday for our First Nations people.