Celebrate Australia’s first peoples Queenslanders are encouraged to take time tomorrow on International Day of the World’s Indigenous People to acknowledge the history and contribution made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples to Queensland. Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs Glen Elmes said Indigenous Australians are recognised as the oldest continuous cultures in the world. “The United Nations’ International Day of the World’s Indigenous People is a chance to celebrate their achievements, diversity and culture,” Mr Elmes said. “The day which is held each year on 9 August, promotes the protection of the rights of the world’s Indigenous populations, and recognises their cultures, history and languages. “The theme for 2013 is, ‘Indigenous peoples building alliances: Honouring treaties, agreements and other constructive arrangements’. “This year’s theme highlights the importance of honouring arrangements between States, their citizens and Indigenous peoples. “These arrangements are designed to recognise Indigenous peoples’ rights to their lands and establish a framework for living in proximity and entering into economic relationships. “They also outline a political vision for different people from different backgrounds and cultures living together on the same land, according to the principles of friendship, cooperation and peace.” Mr Elmes said the Newman Government is focussed on working with Indigenous Queenslanders to increase economic opportunities and improve social cohesion to reduce the reliance on welfare. “The proper response to years of historic disadvantage for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples isn’t just increased government assistance but increased self-assurance, self-reliance and opportunities for improvement,” he said.
Posted on: Thu, 08 Aug 2013 07:25:59 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015