For Member elect for Robertson, Dr Gordon Reid, this year’s National Reconciliation Week had special significance.
A Wiradjuri man, Reid addressed students at ET Australia on May 27 at the first combined campus assembly since COVID-19 hit our shores.
He joined students, teachers, and school staff to mark this year’s theme Be Brave, Make Change and to talk with students about his journey and the importance of National Reconciliation Week.
“I spoke with students about my journey and my ancestors’ history,” he said.
“It was also an opportunity to discuss the vital next steps, we as a nation, must take to ensure we are closing the gap in key outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.”
Students had the opportunity to ask Reid questions and engage in discussion about his journey and the role he will play as part of the new Federal Labor Government.
“Students were very keen to quiz me on the work I will be doing as the new Federal Member for Robertson,” he said.
“I spoke about the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the Government’s commitment to implementing the recommendations in full.
Reid said he believed that, as a nation, we must recognise and acknowledge the thousands of years of history and traditions that Indigenous people have had on this land.
“The Uluru Statement from the Heart is an invitation to all Australians from First Nations people to walk together to build a better future.
“It sets out a vision to enshrine a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Constitution and for the establishment of a Makarrata Commission for the purpose of treaty making and truth-telling.”
ET Australia Principal and CEO, Tony Mylan, said students enjoyed the chance to ask questions of the new MP so soon after the election.
“It was extra special that Dr Reid was able to share his family’s history and his connection to the Indigenous community,” Mylan said.
Primary source: Media release, Jun 3, 2022 Member-elect for Robertson, Gordon Reid