In May of 2024, Reconciliation SA supported the book launch of ‘Reflections on the Voice: During and after the Campaign’ by Professor Andrew Gunstone, where Professor Gunstone was present to explain the book and take questions.

His perspectives were clear and came from a long history of supporting First Nations rights and initiatives as a non-Indigenous ally.

For much of Australia's history, Professor Gunstone said, the atrocities committed against First Nations peoples, including massacres and genocides, were openly acknowledged in newspapers. However, there followed a prolonged period of 67 years, often referred to as the "Great Australian Silence," during which these events were largely forgotten or ignored. This meant that for much of the 20th century, Australians knew little about these dark chapters of their history.

However, today, with the rise of Indigenous media, documentary makers, filmmakers, and authors, there is no longer any excuse for ignorance. It is crucial for allies to educate themselves and their communities about these truths to prevent the burden of education from falling solely on Indigenous leaders, which is deeply unfair.

In his book, Professor Andrew Gunstone emphasises the importance of recommitting to the principles of Voice, Treaty, and Truth. The Uluru Statement from the Heart invites Australians to walk with Aboriginal leaders towards these goals.

Unlike previous petitions addressed to the British monarchy or federal government, the Uluru Statement is directed at all Australians, making its rejection all the more hurtful, and impactful. Therefore, it is crucial for allies to renew their commitment to these principles and support the ongoing efforts in various states, even as the federal government hesitates post-referendum.

For true reconciliation, as Professor Gunstone says, we must go beyond truth-telling and engage in truth-listening and truth-acting.

The Victorian Government, for example, has initiated the Yoorrook Justice Commission, which produced reports with strong recommendations on out-of-home care and the criminal justice system — issues where Indigenous Victorians face significant disparities.

Yet, the government has not enacted these key recommendations, demonstrating the need for concrete actions following truth-telling initiatives.

The creation of a South Australian Voice to Parliament is an opportunity to see similar, reports and recommendations forward, and we are hopeful the South Australian government will listen.

The media also plays a critical role in this process. While Indigenous media has been exemplary, with platforms such as NITV and NIT pushing not oly negative issues, but also positive issues, and lifting up role models, mainstream media has often fallen short.

Professor Gunstone also explained that memorialising historical events, as seen in places like Poland, where bullet holes from WWII are preserved and serve as a constant reminder of past atrocities, is another way to ensure that history is not forgotten. Implementing similar memorials in Australia could help in acknowledging the past and fostering a culture of remembrance and education.

Ultimately, understanding and acknowledging Australia's history, committing to truth-telling, and taking concrete actions towards reconciliation are essential steps in building a more equitable and just society.

This historical acceptance is a fundamental dimension of reconciliation in Australia, as it requires all Australians to acknowledge the painful history of injustices, colonisation, and violence inflicted upon First Nations peoples. This understanding is essential for fostering stronger relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, allowing for healing and a collective path forward.

Keating’s Redfern speech and the National Apology to the Stolen Generations in 2008 exemplifies how confronting uncomfortable truths can facilitate progress and unity, demonstrating that recognizing past wrongs is not merely an act of remembrance but a vital step toward a more just society.

However, achieving historical acceptance faces significant challenges, including discomfort and defensiveness among some non-Indigenous individuals when confronted with Australia's difficult past.

Educators may also hesitate to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into their curricula due to a lack of confidence or resources.

To overcome these obstacles, it is crucial for non-Indigenous Australians to actively engage in self-education, participate in truth-telling initiatives, and advocate for the inclusion of First Nations history in educational settings.

By embracing historical acceptance, Australians can contribute to a more equitable society and ensure that the lessons of the past inform a shared future.

You can find copies of Prodeessr Andrew Gunstone's book here.