A recent incident at the Inverell Aquatic Centre in New South Wales has raised serious concerns about discrimination against First Nations children in public spaces. Reports suggest that a all First Nations children were removed from the pool, allegedly due to the actions of a few individuals. While authorities and pool management have defended their decision on the grounds of safety and behavior, many community members and advocacy groups have questioned whether the response was disproportionate and racially motivated.

While this incident did not take place in South Australia, Reconciliation SA feels compelled to address it. We firmly condemn any form of racial discrimination and the exclusion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples from public spaces.

The reality is, that reports of racism have grown signifacntly since the failed referendum, and it has the potential to increase the frequency of these acts of racial discimination in public spaces. 

The referendum, regardless of the outcome, was intended to help foster unity through a simple advisory body.

However, in its aftermath, many First Nations people have reported feeling more marginalised than before. Reconciliation SA remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting respect, understanding, and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Public facilities, such as pools and community centers, should be places of inclusion and cultural safety, not exclusion and harm. Ensuring that all individuals, especially children, are treated with fairness and respect should be a priority for every institution. Incidents like the one in Inverell highlight the urgent need for education, accountability, and systemic change to dismantle racist attitudes and ensure equitable treatment for all.

Reconciliation SA calls on local councils, businesses, and communities to take active steps in addressing racism and discrimination. This includes implementing cultural awareness training, adopting anti-discrimination and anti-racism policies, and fostering genuine dialogue with First Nations communities to create safer and more inclusive spaces for everyone.

We encourage all Australians to stand against racism in any form and work together towards a future built on truth, respect, and reconciliation.