ANTAR is deeply disappointed with the shocking loss of the Voice Referendum.
Our hearts are with First Nations family, friends, colleagues, and communities for whom this referendum was a chance to have their voices heard and the significance of their place in the Australian nation recognised.
We see the great harm that has been inflicted upon many First Nations people throughout the referendum process and the extent to which it has emboldened racism and misinformation. We explicitly reject all forms of hate-fuelled racism and discrimination and stand together with First Nations peoples in the fight for justice.
The referendum outcome makes it clear that we must redouble our efforts. The Voice was just one mechanism for change and this process has shown that there is widespread support for the principle of self-determination.
At a national level, ANTAR will continue to campaign for Treaties, Truth-Telling and representation.
Within the ACT, ANTAR ACT will be focussing on engaging with all parties in the lead up to the ACT election next year, seeking commitments to strengthening Indigenous voices in Canberra and improving the appalling situation of many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the ACT. The socio-economic and related outcomes for First Nations people here are not acceptable.
We ask you to join with us to continue to advocate for justice, rights and respect for First Nations people. All are welcome to join our monthly committee planning meetings (6pm on the second Monday of the month, via Zoom – with our next meeting Monday 13 November).
Please get in touch if you would like to get involved: info@antaract.org.au.
We will continue to use these monthly newsletters to share information about advocacy actions, as well as news on events that promote and celebrate the heritage and culture of First Nations peoples.
Events around Canberra and the region
Tasting Australia with Adam Shipp
National Museum of Australia
Friday 3 November, 12.30–2pm and 3–4.30pm; Saturday 4 November 2023 9.30–11am and 12–1.30pm (also dates in February and May)
Enjoy the sights and scents of the season as Adam Shipp (Wiradjuri) of Yurbay Consultancies shares his passion for native plants. Each tour finishes with the opportunity to sample some of the flavours found in the Kennedy Garden and around the Canberra region.
Cost involved. Bookings and more information: Tasting Australia with Adam Shipp | National Museum of Australia (nma.gov.au)
The Visitors
The Playhouse, Canberra Theatre
Wednesday 8 – Saturday 11 November (multiple performances)
On a sweltering day in January 1788, seven clan leaders gather on a sandstone escarpment overlooking the harbour. A mysterious fleet of giant nawi is amassing in the harbour and as they creep closer, these seven representatives must choose unanimously: whether to send these strangers on their way or welcome them? Muruwari playwright Jane Harrison’s The Visitors will be reworked for this brand new production directed by one of Australia’s most celebrated directors, Quandamooka man Wesley Enoch, co-produced by Sydney Theatre Company and Moogahlin Performing Arts.
Bookings and more information: Canberra Theatre Centre.
Canberra Theatre Centre are proud to offer Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community members discounted tickets to The Visitors. Please contact the Box Office on 02 6275 2700 to book.
WINHANGANHA – ACT Gala Premiere Screening
Arc Cinema
Wednesday 15 November, 6:30 PM
WINHANGANHA (Wiradjuri language: Remember, know, think) – is a lyrical journey of archival footage and sound, poetry and original composition. It is an examination of how archives and the legacies of collection affect First Nations people and wider Australia, told through the lens of acclaimed Wiradjuri artist, Jazz Money.
Bookings and more information: WINHANGANHA: A new work by award-winning poet and artist Jazz Money | National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (nfsa.gov.au)
HEAL (Healthy Environments And Lives) National Research Network Conference
Tuesday 14 to Thursday 16 November
HEAL is hosting its annual conference with the theme of ‘Collective Action for Health, Environment and Climate’. Over three days, HEAL 2023 will deliver opportunities to discuss the leading health, climate and environmental challenges we face in Australia, the Asia-Pacific region and internationally. In line with HEAL’s core commitment to supporting and elevating Australian First Nations leadership, we will be showcasing examples of Indigenous research excellence and highlighting inspiring case studies from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities who are on the frontlines of climate and environmental change.
The hybrid conference will be delivered online nationally and internationally, and in-person at eight regional nodes across Australia (including ACT), providing multiple avenues for delegates to participate and connect with each other.
Registration and more information at: HEAL 2023 Conference – HEAL Network
ANTaR ACT wish to acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which Canberra is situated, the Ngunnawal and Ngambri people. We wish to acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region. We would also like to acknowledge other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who may visit this area.