Since 1991, 432 Indigenous Australians have died in custody. Racism in Australia is not new but has been occurring since the invasion of this country in 1788. In the Shoalhaven, racism is still present in todays society. An example of this includes Greg Watson (Mayor at the time) burning the Aboriginal flag in public in 1982.
Aboriginal people are the traditional owners of this country and deserve respect from all community members in the Shoalhaven especially our leaders and government.
Join our peaceful ‘Shoalhaven Solidarity’ protest on Saturday 4th of July at 11:00am. The event will be held at Harry Sawkins Park, Nowra and social distancing rules will be implemented as well as hand sanitiser stations. We ask if you are feeling unwell to stay at home as the health and safety of our community and Aboriginal elders is our main priority.
Unsplash peaceful protesters at the recent Black Lives Matter protest in Melbourne
Our intention is for a peaceful protest to show solidarity for our local Indigenous communities and recognise the great injustices Indigenous Australians face daily.
This event will include an open mic and allow our Indigenous community members and elders to share stories and have a yarn. It is time to give a voice to Aboriginal people and other Indigenous people in Australia. This was, is and always will be Aboriginal land.
The protest will run until 1pm and people are asked to bring hats, water, masks, protest signs and to dress in black, yellow and red to show your solidarity.
On Saturday 4th July well over 100 locals met in Nowra at Harry Sawkins Park to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. To my eye over half were Indigenous supporters with most of them youth. The speakers gave a local perspective to the Black Lives Matter call. It was an empowering, well organised rally for all who attended.
Many participants wore masks, Covid conventions were adhered to and clearly identified marshals ensured it was safe and pleasant. The police did not attend.
thanks Tim for recapping on the Nowra BLM event!!