For me, voting Yes to the Voice is a no-brainer.
- The fact that our first nations people have to politely ask to be recognised in the Constitution is a shame on us non-indigenous folk. WE should have initiated this, long ago. For me, enough said.
But also:
- Detractors declare the Voice would give one race more power than any other race or interest group. No, it offers the people who were here first appropriate recognition, and opportunity to provide input ON ISSUES THAT AFFECT THEM, but specifically states that it is parliament that will continue to make decisions and enact legislation. No change there. Hence point 3:
- People saying this referendum is divisive may be struggling to face the fact that they are the privileged ones and perhaps it’s time to let someone else in a bit. Indigenous people are asking the rest of us to walk with them, not under them, so that we can start to move forward as a cohesive, adult nation. Fighting about it is what is divisive, not the referendum itself.
- Finally, fear-mongers remind us that once enshrined in the Constitution, the Voice cannot be removed. Excellent! Can’t be cancelled when government changes hands or has its arm twisted.