Climate Action Merribek supports a “Yes” vote for the referendum. This is important in recognition in the Constitution of the culture, heritage and wisdom of over 60,000 years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia. First Nations people are the first scientists and leaders in nature restoration, land management and climate solutions which we need to work with and draw upon for solutions in the Climate Emergency.

The Voice provides an important mechanism for a dialog between indigenous voices, the Australian parliament and executive government. We also recognise that The Voice is one of the important initiatives that need to happen as part of the Uluru statement from the Heart. We also need the establishment of a Makarrata Commission for the purpose of treaty making and truth-telling.

We have joined with other Climate Movement groups to make this statement:

The Australian Climate Movement Supports Writing “YES” to the Voice

Australia is home to the oldest continuous culture on Earth. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have been caring for Country for millennia. First Nations people are the first scientists and leaders in nature restoration, land management and climate solutions.

We stand together, representing a movement of over two million Australians whose commitment to a healthy climate and thriving environment is rooted in the values of justice, equality and fairness.

This year, Australians are being asked to vote in a referendum to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution and establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.

We wholeheartedly support writing YES in this referendum.

By writing YES, we support a pathway for meaningful, transformative change. This referendum calls upon us to reflect upon our colonial history and envision a future where First Nations justice, truth-telling and self-determination help us move towards a brighter future, together.

We know what it takes to demand ambitious change and challenge entrenched systems. We lead protest movements that bravely challenge the status quo. 

The climate movement has stood up to vested interest groups attempting to impede meaningful action on climate change in this country. These same political culture wars are now attempting to fuel racism and divide us. We will not allow these forces to push our nation backward.

Our support for writing YES is based on the fundamental principle that laws and policies are more effective when those who are affected by them have a voice. We firmly believe in demanding substantive change rather than mere symbolism, and we view this referendum as a step in the right direction.

History has shown us that previous representative bodies for First Nations peoples have been dismantled by the government of the day at will. By writing “Yes” in the referendum, Australians everywhere can establish a permanent representative body that boldly advocates for the needs and aspirations of First Nations people.

Recognising and respecting the knowledge, cultures, stories, and languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples will help us move forward from our past and progress together towards a brighter future.

First Nations communities are at the front line of climate impacts in this country. There is no climate justice without First Nations justice. By ensuring that First Nations communities are represented in shaping national policies, we can achieve better outcomes in health, environment and climate.

We encourage all Australians to listen with an open heart and mind through this historic moment. Together we share a vision for the future as a nation that values justice, equity and fairness for all people. 

Together, let us write YES.