Co-Chairs Congratulate new National Indigenous Congress on Inaugural Elections
Media Release 20 April 2011
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Reconciliation Australia Co-Chairs Prof Mick Dodson and Ms Melinda Cilento have congratulated Ms Jody Broun and Mr Les Malezer on their appointments as first elected Co-Chairs of the National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples.
Prof Dodson said yesterday’s announcement was another important step forward for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and for reconciliation.
“I am encouraged by this step for Indigenous Australians in taking control of our future,” Prof Dodson said.
“My firm hope is that this new Congress will provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples with a national voice and I look forward to working with them from June.”
“I also would like to recognise the other outstanding candidates that ran in these inaugural elections.”
The elections were the first time that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were able to vote on who would best represent them nationally since the abolition of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC).
Ms Cilento said Ms Broun and Mr Malezer were to be commended on the priorities they have outlined for their two-year term.
“Ensuring the voices of women, youth and elders are heard and developing strong partnerships with Indigenous organisations, government and the private sector will be of particular importance as discussions around the recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Constitution develop.
“On behalf of the Reconciliation Australia Board and staff, we look forward to working with the new Co-Chairs of the Congress on the important issues that affect the First Australians,” Ms Cilento said.
Reconciliation Australia is the peak body promoting reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians. For more information: www.reconciliation.org.au
To view Reconciliation Australia’s fact sheet on the Congress visit: http://www.reconciliation.org.au/home/reconciliation-resources/facts---figures/q-a-factsheets
Media Contact: Kylie Thompson 0418 633 277 or kylie.thompson@reconciliation.org.au
