Last week, Western Australia’s Premier stated that an ‘audit’ on the ‘viability’ of remote communities – homelands – has commenced. In The Australian he thrashed out the outrageously unsubstantiated statement, “that people will be shocked by the emerging evidence of appalling mistreatment of children.” Premier Colin Barnett was criticised for propagandising the Government agenda on the intended closing of many of these homelands.
His suggestion smacks of the propaganda and scaremongering that was used to justify the Northern Territory ‘Intervention’. Generic ‘allegations’ of widespread sexual abuses and paedophile rings were unfounded but they were published and broadcast by mainstream media.
Instead of putting the cart before the horse, outraged Elders and advocates are saying that Premier Barnett should immediately table the allegations, have them independently analysed and validated. This is not about whether communities should be closed but about propriety. If Premier Barnett’s statements cannot be substantiated he would then have been responsible in prejudicing the majority of the Western Australian population towards First Peoples in remote communities. If Premier Barnett’s statements cannot be substantiated it is fair to state he will have been guilty of racially toxic statements.
If his comments are unfounded he needs to be called upon to publicly apologise and extensively so to the First Peoples of these communities and to the whole of the nation.
Last week, The Australian journalist, Sonia Kohlbacher reported “Mr Barnett confirmed for the first time that an official investigation had begun into precisely which communities will close, headed by himself, Deputy Premier Kim Hames, Aboriginal Affairs Minister Peter Collier and Regional Development Minister Terry Redman.”
18 months ago I wrote that up to 180 of Western Australia’s remote communities – homelands – faced the prospect of being closed down by the State Government. This was before the kerfuffle over the ‘municipal bill’. It was asserted that my claims were unfounded. In the second half of last year Premier Barnett stated that a squabble with the Federal Government over whether the State or the Commonwealth should cover the pittance municipal costs for Aboriginal communities would lead to the shutting down of up to 150 the communities.
It is the Kimberley that will be most affected. The Kimberley has the nation’s highest proportion of First Peoples as part of its population – 46 per cent. The Kimberley has also the nation’s highest concentration of the nation’s remote communities – homelands. Biridu community Elder, Dickie Bedford said, “Our people are terrified. Many communities fear that they will be shut down or their services shut down and starved out.”
“It is our small communities that are best managed, and that is because they are small communities.”
On November 7 last year, The Australian on its front page published some of my research on the extent of the suicide crisis in the Kimberley. On November 9, Premier Barnett misused my statistical narrative to argue that small communities were vulnerable to social ills and were effectively where the suicides were occurring. But I corrected him. The majority of suicides are in the major regional towns and cities, not in the small communities. In fact, it is my assertion that the smaller a community the less likely a suicide. Therefore when it comes to the Premier’s latest assertion of ‘widespread maltreatment of children’ well I say, ‘prove it’.
Premier Barnett said, “I won’t walk away from this issue. I will probably get criticised, but there will be evidence coming about appalling mistreatment of little kids.”
“That’s going to be the reality. I cannot sit by as the Premier and see kids not being educated, having poor health, being abused (and) high rates of domestic violence.”
“It will come out because we are going to be going through all those communities very carefully and seeing exactly what’s going on. People aren’t going to like that. They’re going to be shocked by it.”
The Kimberley Land Council’s CEO, Anthony Watson told The Australian journalist Paige Taylor, “(The Premier’s) claim that preventing abuse of children is driving his intention to close remote Aboriginal communities is appalling.”
“Demonising Aboriginal people like this damages Aboriginal people, damages the reputation of the State and takes on a backward path.”
“We see a pattern from the Premier of making broad, unfounded statements about Aboriginal people.”
Opposition Treasurer and Aboriginal Affairs portfolio holder, Yamatji Ben Wyatt told the ABC’s Stephanie Dalzell, “Four months ago it was a budget problem (over the $90 million municipal bill) and now suddenly (the Premier) is worried about ‘child abuse’ in remote communities.”
“These are not the actions of a Premier. These are the actions of a desperate, despicable man.”
“I have watched him for seven years as Premier give seven different Premier’s statements at the beginning of every Parliamentary year. Not once has he mentioned concern about the children of remote Aboriginal communities until this year,” said Mr Wyatt.
But Premier Barnett is selling a suite of arguments. So far, he has pulled out of the hat, suicides as an issue – and has been proven wrong. He has said the State cannot afford the municipal bill of $90 million per annum for the 282 remote communities. $90 million is pittance. Are they going to build thousands of new houses in the new towns for the dispossessed and displaced? In six years, the Government has built only 700 public houses on average per year for the whole of the State while there are 48,000 people on the public housing waiting list, with 3,000 on the priority waiting list. For First Peoples the average over that period drops to less than 100 public houses, the majority third-rate dwellings. He is suggesting that the communities are rife with child abuses – where is the proof? He is also saying that the majority of communities can never become economically viable.
“That cannot happen in remote tiny communities. It cannot,” stated the Premier.
In South Australia’s north, up to 100 communities in Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) lands have also been slated by the South Australian Government for shutdown following their tiff with the Federal Government over a paltry $10 million annual municipal bill.
APY’s John Singer said, “Our communities are viable and can be economically strengthened but we are not receiving the equivalent support from Governments that non-Aboriginal communities receive.”
South Australia’s Chair of the Narrungga Peoples, Tauto Sansbury said, “It’s a land grab, pure and simple. It’s coming from all quarters around the nation, with land rights diminished, with native title made a mockery, with Indigenous land use agreements reduced in value, with the monetization of our lands so they can be sold from under us. Who will the shutting down of communities benefit?”
“Not the people living there. It will rip families to shreds, tear their souls apart and their connection to Country. It will lead to homelessness and despair. But those who will benefit are the miners and developers who can build their mines. They want the physical connection to Country out of the way.”
Mr Sansbury said Premier Barnett’s sweeping comments of child abuse and maltreatment “were disgraceful and in making them and putting them in people’s minds as if fact, has turned upside down every premise of this nation’s rule of law”.
“Our people have suffered enough with this type of wholesale violent language and we should not be easy picking for slurs. No people should be.”
Further reading:
Rednecks at it again – 180 remote communities at-risk of being closed | The Stringer
South Australia’s remote communities could face closure | The Stringer
Outrage at prospect of closing down communities | The Stringer
Redneck agenda to close down communities | The Stringer
Minister Marmion must be joking, “more support for outback communities” | The Stringer
Six homeless children fighting for a better tomorrow | The Stringer
Homeless family’s plight prompts call for better state housing priority
The extensiveness of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander suicides – 1 in 20 | The Stringer
A nation shamed when child sees suicide as the solution – The Australian
WGAR News: Michael Anderson writes Open Letter to UN Secretary-General re Refugee Camp in Perth and developing Humanitarian Crisis
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/07/wgar-news-michael-anderson-writes-open-letter-to-un-secretary-general-re-refugee-camp-in
Contents:
* Open Letter:
To H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of UN General Assembly
From Ghillar Michael Anderson, Sovereign Union
Re: Refugee Camp in Perth and developing Humanitarian Crisis
* Audio: Fiona Pepper, The Wire: WA Indigenous communities closed down [Featuring Wilma Humphries, Michael Anderson & Tammy Solonec]
* News: Kaitlyn Offer, Perth Now: Heirisson Island ‘refugee’ campers have no plans to move
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
* WGAR Background to the Aboriginal Sovereignty Movement
OPEN LETTER
To: H.E. Mr. Ban Ki-moon, Secretary-General of UN General Assembly, New York, NY 10017 USA
From: Ghillar Michael Anderson, Convenor and Joint Spokesperson of Sovereign Union of First Nations and Peoples in Australia and Head of State of the Euahlayi Peoples Republic
Re: Refugee Camp in Perth and developing Humanitarian Crisis
http://sovereignunion.mobi/content/refugee-camp-perth-and-developing-humanitarian-crisis
http://nationalunitygovernment.org/pdf/2015/150303-SU-UN-SG-re%20Refugee%20Camp.pdf
3 Mar 15: “As the appointed Ambassador of the original Aboriginal Embassy, the Convenor of the Sovereign Union and Head of State, Euahlayi Peoples Republic, I herewith bring to your attention the humanitarian crisis that has now developed in the state of Western Australia. This crisis is a consequence of the Western Australian government’s policy of shutting down up to 150 Aboriginal homelands and communities, which they have wrongly stated to be financially ‘unsustainable’ and economically unviable. We regard these actions as an an act of war and aggression against the various tribal Nations in Western Australia.
Already we have seen the Lockridge Aboriginal community in Perth bulldozed with impunity after the Commonwealth government of Australia had just completed building new dwellings. The people are homeless and have now crowded into other family homes creating massive overcrowding, which leads to family confrontation and lateral violence that affects not only children but adults alike.
In the northern part of Western Australia the Aboriginal community of Oombulgurri was progressively closed down: First, the government closed the services. … then eventually the electricity and water were turned off. Finally, the 10 residents who resolutely stayed to the end were forcibly evicted, …
I call upon Your Excellency to make this humanitarian crisis known throughout the world. Furthermore, we ask that Your Excellency assist in the immediate provision of safeguards and protection of the refugee camp and to provide appropriate aid for the health and well-being of the refugees. … “
WGAR News: Djurin Refugee Camp – Nyoongar People Speak Out about Homelessness: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/10/wgar-news-djurin-refugee-camp-nyoongar-people-speak-out-about-homelessness-eleanor
Contents:
* Video: NITV News: Refugees In Their Own Country – Noongars Protest Against Remote Community Closures
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 1 March 2015 Djurin Refugee Camp – Nyoongar People Speak Out about Homelessness
* Analysis / Opinion: Ray Jackson, Redfern-Waterloo Community Action: community shutdowns, wa.
* Analysis / Opinion: Miranda Wood, Red Flag: Activists set up camp in WA
* Analysis / Opinion: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Refugee camp thanks its founders with corroborree
* Video: Yahoo: Protestors stay put on Heirisson
* Analysis / Opinion: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Premier Barnett, how dare you? – “appalling mistreatment of children”
* Video: NITV News: Colin Barnett a No-show at Kimberley Land Council’s Alliance Meeting
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
* WGAR Background to the Aboriginal Sovereignty Movement
WGAR News: Urgent Action – Remote Homelands and Outstations in WA – Will You Help to Prevent a Crisis?
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/11/wgar-news-urgent-action-remote-homelands-and-outstations-in-wa-will-you-help-to-prevent-a
Contents:
* Urgent Action: Sovereign Union: Remote homelands and Outstations in WA: Will You Help to Prevent a Crisis?
* Audio Interview: CAAMA Radio: Aboriginals becoming refugees, following WA community closures
[Featuring Nicole Culbong from the Nyoongar Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Perth]
* Analysis / Opinion: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: Tony Abbott’s Australia: From ‘Nothing But Bush’ to ‘Brimming With Choices’
* Media Release: Senator Rachel Siewert: Greens: Remote indigenous communities are not a ‘lifestyle choice’ and should not be treated as such
* News Analysis: SBS News: Labor slams PM over ‘highly offensive’ remote communities comments
* Analysis / Opinion: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: Barnett Plays ‘Abuse Card’ To Defend Closure Of Remote West Australian Communities
[Featuring comments by Amnesty International’s Indigenous rights campaigner Tammy Solenec & Noongar activist Marianne McKay]
* Analysis / Opinion & Photos: Calla Wahlquist in the Kimberley, The Guardian: Of three remote communities here, why are only the two Aboriginal ones under threat?
* Video: Sovereign Union: Djurin Nyoongar Swan River Treaty
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
– Urgent Action
The Stringer facebook: Jennifer Kaeshagen
[scroll down page] https://www.facebook.com/TheStringerNews
11 Mar 15: “Anyone free around midday tomorrow, you may wish to consider coming down to Matargarup, to bear compassionate, responsible witness to wholesale disregard of the urgent concerns of First Nations people of this continent. Residents of the Matargarup First Nations refugee camp have been warned that they must move on by midday tomorrow … of course meaning – or else .. The more witnesses the less the likelihood that campers will be hurt, in any of the many ways that people can be. Please come. With respect, Jennifer Kaeshagen. [phone number supplied]”
The Stringer facebook: Jennifer Kaeshagen
[scroll down page] https://www.facebook.com/TheStringerNews
12 Mar 15: “Folks the Matargarup Embassy / First Nations refugee camp has negotiated a 24hr extension. The siege will now instead take place midday this coming Friday the 13th. – Jennifer Kaeshagen [phone number supplied]”
– Media Release
Ghillar Michael Anderson, Sovereign Union: Abbott rejects compliance with international law and rebuts the UN’s standing
http://nationalunitygovernment.org/content/abbott-rejects-compliance-international-law-and-rebuts-uns-standing
http://sovereignunion.mobi/pdf/2015/150311-su-abbott-un.pdf
11 March 2015:
“Ghillar, Michael Anderson, Convenor of the Sovereign Union, Head of State of the Euahlayi Republic and co-founder of the 1972 Aboriginal Embassy said from Goodooga today:
Clearly Tony Abbott has been fully briefed on a Queensland Supreme court decision Ngurampaa v Balonne Shire Council where the judge agreed with the Balonne Shire Council submission that Australia is not bound to the UN Charter
[ http://nationalunitygovernment.org/content/charter-united-nations-does-not-apply-australia-claims-qld-lawyer-euahlayi-rates-case ]
The most recent media comments by Tony Abbott, self-styled ‘Prime Minister for Indigenous Australia’ demonstrate the voice and opinion of a tyrant, dressed up in a liberal suit. The racist comments by PM Abbott in response to Aboriginal opposition to being forcibly removed form their lands resonates in the most negative of ways. As the ABC reported:
“Yesterday, Mr Abbott backed a plan in Western Australia to close more than 100 remote communities and move more than 12,000 people, saying “what we can’t do is endlessly subsidise lifestyle choices”.”
[ http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-11/abbott-defends-indigenous-communities-lifestyle-choice/6300218 ]
We all know that the Western Australian government and Tony Abbott seek to clear the interior land mass of any and every resisting Aboriginal person, so they don’t have to deal with Land Rights issues, water rights issues and environmental issues. … “
WGAR News: NZ MP’s support Aboriginal protest over proposed closure of indigenous communities: Heeni Brown, Maori Television
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/13/wgar-news-nz-mps-support-aboriginal-protest-over-proposed-closure-of-indigenous
Contents:
* News Analysis & Video: Heeni Brown, Maori Television: NZ MP’s support Aboriginal protest over proposed closure of indigenous communities
* Audio Interview: Paul Wiles, CAAMA Radio: Going backward is the problem – Rosalie Kunoth Monks
* Audio Interview: CAAMA Radio: Support growing for for displaced community mob … [Featuring Gerry Georgatos]
* Media Release: NAACHO: Closure of WA Aboriginal communities repeats historic failures
* News Analysis: NAACHO News: Will closing Aboriginal communities be detrimental to future health and wellbeing?
* Audio Interview: Sarah Martin, The Wire: Connection to country essential for Aboriginal culture [Featuring Glen Kelly, CEO, SWALSC]
* Analysis / Opinion: Joe Morrison NLC, SMH: Remote communities aren’t a utopian lifestyle choice but they are good for our people
* Analysis / Opinion: Michelle Dunne Breen, The Conversation: For the real story on Indigenous Australia, social beats old media
* Analysis / Opinion: Corinne Grant, The Hoopla: Why Can’t Black People Live More Like White People?
* Audio Interview: CAAMA Radio: PM’s comments a bone for the right wing… Shadow Minister Shane Neumann
* Background: Helen Davidson, The Guardian: Explainer: the facts behind the outrage over Tony Abbott’s Indigenous ‘lifestyle choice’ remarks
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Remote Indigenous communities are vital for our fragile ecosystems: Craig Moritz, Emilie-Jane Ens & Jon Altman, The Conversation
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/13/wgar-news-remote-indigenous-communities-are-vital-for-our-fragile-ecosystems-craig-moritz
Contents:
* Audio Interview: Steven Riggall, The Wire: The environmental benefits of Indigenous people living on country [Featuring Emillie-Jane Ens]
* Analysis / Opinion: Craig Moritz, Emilie-Jane Ens & Jon Altman, The Conversation: Remote Indigenous communities are vital for our fragile ecosystems
* Analysis / Opinion: Marie McInerney, BBC News: Australia’s remote indigenous communities fear closure
* Analysis / Opinion: Dan Tout, arena: Settler Colonial Closures
* Report: Gavin Mooney: Health and Homelands: Good Value for Money?
* Report: Sean Kerins, CAEPR: The Future of homelands/Outstations
* Background: Amnesty International Australia: Homelands
* Background: Jens Korff, Creative Spirits: Aboriginal homelands & outstations
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
The Age: Protesters “shut down Melbourne” to fight against closure of Aboriginal communities
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/protesters-shut-down-melbourne-to-fight-against-closure-of-aboriginal-communities-20150313-143uhe.html
13 Mar 15: “More than a thousand protesters shut down traffic in Melbourne’s CBD to rally against the planned closure of remote Indigenous communities in West Australia. The group had hoped to confront Tony Abbott at the National Gallery, where he had been rumoured to be dining on Friday night. … After giving up on seeing Mr Abbott at about 6pm, the swarm of angry protesters walked up from the gallery to the State Library waving Aboriginal flags and chanting “shame, Abbott, shame”.” Chloe Booker
Matargarup Aboriginal Refugee Camp
WGAR News: Matargarup Aboriginal Refugee Camp: About 50 WA police officers have used mounted police and K-9 dogs to seize the tents and valuables
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/15/wgar-news-matargarup-aboriginal-refugee-camp-about-50-wa-police-officers-have-used
Contents:
* Petition: Change.org Petition: Stop displacing Indigenous Australians by the closure of Indigenous communities.
* Urgent Action: Jennifer Kaeshagen, The Stringer facebook: “If anyone can donate to the … Matargarup First Nations refugee camp, then that be good. Really good. Tents, mattresses, bedding, … cash”
* News Analysis: Alex Bainbridge in Perth, Green Left: Police move in but fail to snuff out sacred fire at Matagarup
* Audio: Adam Evans with CAAMA Radio, NIRS: We have a right to be on Matagarup: Noongar embassy [Featuring Marianne Mackay]
* Photos: Sovereign Union: WA uses mounted police and dogs to seize tents and valuables at Refugee Camp
* Audio Interview: social justice and sustainable living – new media: #Indigenous tent Embassy near #Perth CBD will continue despite eviction by police – yarn with Herbert Bropho
* News: Calla Wahlquist and agencies, The Guardian: Mounted police join effort to dismantle Heirisson Island protest
* News: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: ‘Refugee Camp’ For Aboriginal People Moved Off Remote Communities Ordered To Close
* News Analysis: Alan Austin in France, Independent Australia: Abbott trashes Australia’s reputation abroad – again
* Analysis / Opinion: Jon Altman, ‘concerned Australians’: Homelands under the hammer, again, from the aspiring PM for indigenous policy
* Analysis / Opinion: Michael Gordon, SMH: Tony Abbott’s lifestyle choice remark leaves ‘everyone hurting inside’ in remote indigenous communities
* News & Photos: Green Left: Rally against Indigenous community closures shuts down Melbourne CBD
* Analysis / Opinion: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Forced to dance to the White Man’s song – Australia, steeped in racism
* Background: Diet Simon sourcing from WGAR news, Linksunten Indymedia: Maori politicians support Aboriginal protest over proposed closure of indigenous communities
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Call to Action 19 March 2015: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities – Stop the Genocide!
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/17/wgar-news-call-to-action-19-march-2015-stop-the-forced-closure-of-aboriginal-communities
Contents:
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* Upcoming Event: Flyer: 19 March 2015: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities – call to action – Stop the Genocide!
* Upcoming Event: Thu 19 March 2015 from 11.30am: Rally from Aboriginal Tent Embassy to Parliament House, Canberra: Aboriginal communities in Australia announce a global call to action.
* Upcoming Event: 19 March 2015 at 12.30: Sydney say No Forced Closures of Remote Aboriginal Communities
* Upcoming Event: SOSBlakAustralia: Aboriginal Australian communities announce a global call to action
* Petition: Sarah Jay, Change.org: This petition will be tabled in the federal senate this week
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Aboriginal Australian Communities Send a Powerful Message to Government: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/24/wgar-news-aboriginal-australian-communities-send-a-powerful-message-to-government-stop
Contents:
* Analysis / Opinion: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Here is part of the list of threatened Homelands – “remote communities”
* Media Release: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: Aboriginal Australian Communities Send a Powerful Message to Government
* News Analysis: Miranda Wood, Red Flag: Thousands join nationwide rallies against community closures
* News Analysis: Alex Bainbridge, Green Left: Resistance builds against plan to close Aboriginal communities
* News Analysis: Calla Wahlquist & Helen Davidson, The Guardian: Close the Gap day: Colin Barnett tells protesters to ‘put yourselves in my shoes’
* Audio Interviews: Cassandra Tim & Warren Barnsley, National Indigenous Radio’s ‘Weekly News-in-Review’:
Proposed community closures in Western Australia [Featuring Graham Merritt, Irene Davey, Nigel Scullion & Kirstie Parker]
* Audio: Lucy Martin, ABC News: Thousands rally in protest of remote community closures
* Video: SBS News: Barnett shouted down at Indigenous rally
* Video: SBS News: SA crowd protests remote closures
* News Analysis: Brendan Foster, SMH: Aboriginal community closure: intense rally at Parliament House
* News Analysis: Nicolas Perpitch, Bonnie Christian & Andrew O’Connor, ABC News: Colin Barnett pushed as anger erupts at protest over remote communities closure
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Thu 19 March 2015 Canberra Rally against Homeland Closures
WGAR News: Eleanor Gilbert’s Videos of Canberra Speakers at 19 March 2015 Rally against Homeland Closures; from Aboriginal Tent Embassy to Parliament House
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/24/wgar-news-eleanor-gilberts-videos-of-canberra-speakers-at-19-march-2015-rally-against
Contents:
* Event: Thu 19 March 2015: Rally from Aboriginal Tent Embassy to Parliament House, Canberra:
Aboriginal communities in Australia announce a global call to action.
* Videos: Eleanor Gilbert’s Videos on Vimeo
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Abbott for genocide
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands March
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Gerry Georgatos
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Ghillar Michael Anderson
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homeland-Alice Haines
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Hamid Bin Saad
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Rod Liddle
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Nova Peris
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Shaun Harris
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Nicole Culbong
* Video: Eleanor Gilbert, Vimeo: 150319-Homelands-Senator Rachel Siewert
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Support for WA Remote Communities is Going Global
WGAR News: International exposure: Rallies throughout Australia protesting closure of Aboriginal homelands / remote communities
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/25/wgar-news-international-exposure-rallies-throughout-australia-protesting-closure-of
Contents:
* Video: NITV News: Support for WA Remote Communities is Going Global
* Open Letter: Sovereign Union Letter to United Nations – SOS Forced closure of Aboriginal homeland communities in WA
* Photo: Sovereign Union facebook: “Here is Sovereign Union founder and convenor Ghillar Michael Anderson speaking on a Russian TV program on Thursday night by Skype.”
* News Analysis: Charlotte Chabas, Le Monde: En Australie, la colère des Aborigènes face au « mépris » de leur culture: “The World: In Australia Aboriginal People’s anger faces the ‘contempt’ of their culture”
* News Analysis: teleSUR: Australians Rally against Closure of Aboriginal Communities
* Media Release: Sisters of Saint Joseph: Josephites express profound concern at proposed Government plans to withdraw basic services to Aboriginal communities
* Media Statement: Bishops Commission for Relations with Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders: What Choice? Aboriginal peoples have the right to decent services where they live
* Joint Urgent Appeal: Franciscans International & Edmund Rice International: Forced Displacement of Aborigines in West Australia
* Background: Franciscans International – a voice at the United Nations: Indigenous Peoples
* News Analysis & Video: Heeni Brown, Maori Television: NZ MP’s support Aboriginal protest over proposed closure of indigenous communities
* Analysis / Opinion: Royce Kurmelovs, Al Jazeera: Shutting down Australia’s Aboriginal areas
* News Analysis: Alan Austin in France, Independent Australia: Abbott trashes Australia’s reputation abroad – again
* Analysis / Opinion: Marie McInerney, BBC News: Australia’s remote indigenous communities fear closure
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* Background: Diet Simon, sourced from WGAR, Linksunten Indymedia: Aboriginal Australian communities send a powerful message to government
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Breaking News: Homeless camp raided – City of Perth in disgrace, once again: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/26/wgar-news-breaking-news-homeless-camp-raided-city-of-perth-in-disgrace-once-again-gerry
Contents:
* Breaking News & News Analysis: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Homeless camp raided – City of Perth in disgrace, once again
* Analysis / Opinion: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Help the First Nations Homelessness Project – help Matargarup refugee camp – help the homeless
* News Analysis: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Refugee camp thanks its founders with corroborree
* News Analysis: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: In the heart of Perth, Aboriginal Tent Embassy and a refugee camp
* News Analysis: Gerry Georgatos, The Stringer: Jennifer Kaeshagen sets up The First Nations Homelessness Project
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
* WGAR Background to the Aboriginal Sovereignty Movement
Maori Solidarity with the Nyoongar people at Matargarup, Perth
WGAR News: Protests against closure of Aboriginal communities gain momentum: Rewa Harriman, Maori Television
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/29/wgar-news-protests-against-closure-of-aboriginal-communities-gain-momentum-rewa-harriman
Contents:
* News Analysis & Video: Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Protests against closure of Aboriginal communities gain momentum [Maori Solidarity with the Nyoongar people at Matargarup, Perth]
* News Analysis & Video: Heeni Brown, Maori Television: Maori concern grows for remote Aboriginal communities
* News Analysis & Video: Taroi Black, Maori Television: Maori students join online protest against the closure of Aboriginal communities
* Action: Eru Rerekura, Radio New Zealand News: Call for support for Australian indigenous rights
* Video: Digital Dreaming Project, facebook: Coroboree Causes Conjestion: Brisbane Unites for the WA Mob.
* Video: Lia Yorkston, facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: “Brisbane knows how to protest”
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Background: The Stringer facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheStringerNews
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: May Day marches:
Forcibly removing our Peoples from their lands unacceptable as a remedy for governments trading insolvent:
Ghillar Michael Anderson, Sovereign Union
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/30/wgar-news-may-day-marches-forcibly-removing-our-peoples-from-their-lands-unacceptable-as
Contents:
* Media Release: Ghillar Michael Anderson, Sovereign Union: May Day marches: Forcibly removing our Peoples from their lands unacceptable as a remedy for governments trading insolvent
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* Video: NITV News: Remote Closures – SA Communities Call Emergency Summit to Fight ‘Cultural Genocide’
* News: Online News Team, Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Maori supporters entertain indigenous protesters
* Background: Diet Simon, sourcing from WGAR, Linksunten Indymedia: Maori solidarity with the Nyoongar people at Matargarup, Perth
* WGAR Background to the Aboriginal Sovereignty Movement
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Threats to close Aboriginal homelands in South Australia
WGAR News: SA Indigenous leaders seek urgent meeting over community closure concerns: Natalie Whiting, ABC PM
Featuring Haydyn Bromley, SA Aboriginal Lands Trust & Tammy Franks, SA Greens MLC
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/03/31/wgar-news-sa-indigenous-leaders-seek-urgent-meeting-over-community-closure-concerns
Contents:
* Audio: Natalie Whiting, ABC PM: SA Indigenous leaders seek urgent meeting over community closure concerns [Featuring Haydyn Bromley, SA Aboriginal Lands Trust & Tammy Franks, SA Greens MLC]
* News: ABC News: Indigenous elders meet at Port Augusta as federal funding cuts threaten to close remote communities [Featuring Elder Mima Smart]
* Video: NITV News – 30 March 2015: Threats to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in SA
* Video: NITV News: Remote Closures – SA Communities Call Emergency Summit to Fight ‘Cultural Genocide’
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News Public Google Group: https://groups.google.com/forum/?hl=en-GB#!forum/wgar-news
WGAR News – Working Group for Aboriginal Rights (Australia)
Bella Bropho interviewed on Maori Television
WGAR News: Bella Bropho interviewed by Rewa Harriman – Aboriginal Community Closures: Native Affairs, Maori Television
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/05/wgar-news-bella-bropho-interviewed-by-rewa-harriman-aboriginal-community-closures-native
Contents:
* Latest News & Videos: Top topic: Australia – Maori Television: http://www.maoritelevision.com/news/latest-news/australia
* Video Interview: Native Affairs, Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Native Affairs – Aboriginal Community Closures [Rewa Harriman interviews Bella Bropho]
* News Analysis & Video: Native Affairs, Online News Team, Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Aboriginal people call on John Key to support their communities
* News Analysis & Video: Maiki Sherman, Maori Television: Support grows for Australian Aboriginal communities from Maori MPs
* News Analysis: Online News Team, Maori Television: Marama Fox denied leave for vote on Australian Aboriginal communities
* News Analysis & Video: Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Wangkatja elder concerned about mineral wealth of ancestral land
* News Analysis & Video: Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Nyungah tribe embroiled in familiar battle with Australian Government
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Abuse in remote communities is the oldest excuse for catastrophic evictions: Tammy Solonec, The Guardian
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/07/wgar-news-abuse-in-remote-communities-is-the-oldest-excuse-for-catastrophic-evictions
Contents:
* Analysis / Opinion: Tammy Solonec, The Guardian: Abuse in remote communities is the oldest excuse for catastrophic evictions
* Analysis / Opinion: Tammy Solonec, Indigenous Rights Manager, Amnesty International Australia: Update: forced closure of homelands communities
* Audio Interviews: Cassandra Tim & Warren Barnsley, NIRS Weekly News-in-Review [Featuring Dennis Eggington & Margaret Culbong: remote community closures]
* Analysis / Opinion: Revive Magazine: Concern for WA’s remote Indigenous communities
* Analysis / Opinion: Ruth DeSouza: The closure of remote Aboriginal communities: What is the role of nurses in Indigenous disadvantage?
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Marches in Melbourne & Sydney protesting community closures
WGAR News: Breaking News 10 April 2015: Over Thirteen Thousand People Shut down Melbourne: CAAMA
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/11/wgar-news-breaking-news-10-april-2015-over-thirteen-thousand-people-shut-down-melbourne
* Photos, Videos & Media: 10 April 2015 Marches in Melbourne & Sydney: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook
* Audio Interview: Van Nguyen & Sacha Payne, SBS News: Protests over plans to close remote communities [Van Nguyen spoke to Sacha Payne from the Melbourne rally]
* Video: David Hurley, Herald Sun: Flinders Street protest causing traffic, commuter chaos
* Breaking News & Photos: CAAMA: Over Thirteen Thousand People Shut down Melbourne
* Breaking News: ABC News: Thousands rally in Melbourne in support of remote Aboriginal communities
* Breaking News: Aisha Dow, The Age: Protests bring city roads to standstill
* Breaking News: Skye News: Aboriginal protest disrupts Melb CBD
* Breaking News: SBS News: Hundreds protest against WA closures in Melbourne, Sydney
* Video: NITV News: We Want the World to Know: Rallies Continue Against Forced Closures of Aboriginal Communities
* Breaking News: Brittany Ruppert, SMH: 800 people march in Sydney protest against forced closure of remote Indigenous communities
* News Analysis: Green Left: Good news: Victorian council opposes closures of Aboriginal communities
* News Analysis: Thom Mitchell, New Matilda: Marches Today In Sydney, Melbourne Against Forced Closures Of Aboriginal Communities
* Photos: Citizenside France: Noosa: Protesters condemn community closures outside Abbott’s lunch
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Reps from KLC will travel to NY for 20 April meeting of permanent forum on Indigenous issues
WGAR News: Kimberley Land Council to ask UN forum to condemn Indigenous community closures: Calla Wahlquist, The Guardian
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/10/wgar-news-kimberley-land-council-to-ask-un-forum-to-condemn-indigenous-community-closures
Contents:
* Video: Rachael Thornton, The Feed, SBS: Indigenous communities facing closure [Featuring Aboriginal people from WA homelands]
* Personal Story: Samantha Martin, Sunday Style, news.com.au: It’s more than just a ‘lifestyle choice’, it’s my home
* Analysis / Opinion: Calla Wahlquist, The Guardian: Kimberley Land Council to ask UN forum to condemn Indigenous community closures
* Analysis / Opinion: Michelle Lovegrove & Andrea Booth, NITV: Indigenous MP Linda Burney condems WA remote community closures
* Analysis / Opinion: Bridie Jabour, The Guardian: SA Indigenous figures fear funding dispute could lead to ‘cultural genocide’
* Analysis / Opinion: Catholic Communications, Sydney Archdiocese: Funding Cuts to Remote WA and SA Communities Will Destroy Aboriginal Life
* News Analysis: Natalie Whiting, ABC News: Remote SA Aboriginal communities reassured they will stay open in face of national funding cuts
* Audio: Natalie Whiting, The World Today: SA Aboriginal groups assured communities won’t close
* WGAR News: Breaking News – 10 April 2015: Over Thirteen Thousand People Shut down Melbourne: CAAMA
* Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
KALACC Directors Statement – Kimberley
WGAR News: KALACC Directors: Threatened Closure of Remote Aboriginal Communities: Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/12/wgar-news-kalacc-directors-threatened-closure-of-remote-aboriginal-communities-kimberley
Contents:
* Statement: Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre: KALACC Directors Statement on the Threatened Closure of Remote Aboriginal Communities – April 2015
* Background: KALACC is the Kimberley Region’s Peak Indigenous Law and Culture Centre
* Background: WGAR News: Kimberley Land Council to ask UN forum to condemn Indigenous community closures: Calla Wahlquist, The Guardian
* Background: Kimberley Land Council – About Us
* Analysis / Opinion: Michele Madigan, Eureka Street: Funding cut signals the destruction of Aboriginal life in Australia
* Audio: Dom Vukovic, 2SER – Real Radio: “removal of aboriginal communities from their lands in Western Australia”
[Featuring Paddy Gibson, Brenda Croft & Rosalie Kunoth-Monks]
* News: Thom Mitchell, New Matilda: ‘We’ll Be Back’: Thousands Protest Forced Closure Of Remote Communities
* News: NZ Herald: Melbourne rocked by protests
* News: Reme Sakr, Press TV: Australians slam govt. over plans against aboriginals
* Video: Seven Local News – Sunshine Coast, facebook: “A group of protesters tried to interrupt the Prime Minister while he lunched in Noosa”
* Event Poster: TangataWhenua.com: Maori solidarity with our Aboriginal brothers and sisters in Australia
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* Background: Press TV: Australia discontinues water, electricity services for Aboriginals
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Funding for South Australia’s Aboriginal Communities
WGAR News: Interview with Haydyn Bromley on funding for the 60 SA Aboriginal Communities: Uncle Stephen Goldsmith, Nunga Wangga – Radio Adelaide
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/14/wgar-news-interview-with-haydyn-bromley-on-funding-for-the-60-sa-aboriginal-communities
Contents:
* Audio Interview: Uncle Stephen Goldsmith, Nunga Wangga – Radio Adelaide: Haydyn Bromley on funding for the 60 SA Aboriginal Communities
[Featuring Haydyn Bromley, Stephen Goldsmith, Minungka McInerney]
* Audio Interview: CAAMA Radio’s Strong Voices: South Australia’s Remote Communities Safe for Now!
[Featuring Haydyn Bromley, Aboriginal Lands Trust South Australia]
* Audio: Natalie Whiting, The World Today: SA Indigenous communities safe: state and federal governments strike a deal
[Featuring Nigel Scullion, Haydyn Bromley & Kyam Maher]
* Media Release: Senator Rachel Siewert: Greens: Federal funding for SA remote aboriginal communities secured, WA must receive funding rethink
* Analysis / Opinion: Michele Madigan, Eureka Street: Funding cut signals the destruction of Aboriginal life in Australia
* Breaking News: Natalie Whiting, Nicola Gage & staff, ABC News: Future of remote Aboriginal communities secured by deal between SA and federal governments
* Breaking News: Lauren Novak, The Advertiser: State and Federal Governments sign $15 million funding agreement for services for Aboriginal communities.
* Breaking News: Stephanie Anderson, SBS News: Deal secures future of SA remote Indigenous communities
* Breaking News: Bridie Jabour, The Guardian: SA remote Indigenous communities thrown lifeline by funding deal
* Background: WGAR News: SA Indigenous leaders seek urgent meeting over community closure concerns: Natalie Whiting, ABC PM
[Featuring Haydyn Bromley & Tammy Franks]
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
WGAR News: Aboriginal protest continues as Australian PM plans visit to New Zealand: Online News Team, Maori Television
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/14/wgar-news-aboriginal-protest-continues-as-australian-pm-plans-visit-to-new-zealand-online
Contents:
* Latest News & Videos: Top topic: Australia – Maori Television: http://www.maoritelevision.com/news/latest-news/australia
* News Analysis: Online News Team, Maori Television: Aboriginal protest continues as Australian PM plans visit to New Zealand
* News Analysis: Online News Team, Maori Television: Maori perform haka in Sydney opposing closure of remote Aboriginal communities
* News Analysis: Online News Team, Taiha Molyneux, Maori Television: Maori and Australian artists collaborate to create artwork opposing remote community closure
* Call Out: Melissa Sweet, Croakey – the Crikey health blog: Calling health professionals to stand up on May 1, and join the “Selfish Rabble”
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* News Analysis: Steph Price, Red Flag: The fight for remote communities strengthens
* News Analysis: Rachel Evans & Jemma Nott, Green Left: Huge rallies against WA community closures
* Video: Yupster2501, YouTube: Stop The Forced Closure Of Aboriginal Communities – Sydney 10th April 2015
* Interview: The Guardian: #SOSBLAKAUSTRALIA: stop the forced closure of Aboriginal communities – IndigenousX [Featuring Sam Cook]
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Aboriginal Homelands Closure
WGAR News: Unions Slam Closure Of Remote Aboriginal Communities In WA: Amy McQuire, New Matilda
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/18/wgar-news-unions-slam-closure-of-remote-aboriginal-communities-in-wa-amy-mcquire-new
Contents:
* Analysis / Opinion: Mia Pepper, Eco-Shout: Radioactive racism in the Wild West – WA takes aim at remote communities
* Analysis / Opinion: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: Unions Slam Closure Of Remote Aboriginal Communities In WA
* News Analysis: Shar Adams, Epoch Times: Australia: Indigenous Affairs Take Backward Step [Featuring Jon Altman]
* Audio Interviews: Cassandra Tim & Warren Barnsley, NIRS Weekly News-in-Review:
[Featuring: Pekeri Ruska, Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance & Haydn Bromley, South Australian Aboriginal Lands Trust]
* Interview: Solidarity Online: Aboriginal community closures: ‘This is an attempt to destroy our culture’
[Featuring Meriki Onus, protest organiser from the youth group Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance]
* News: Michele Jedlicka, The Inverell Times: Inverell plans second protest march over closing WA Aboriginal communities
* Audio: Kristy McMahon, NIRS: Auckland to rally in support of remote WA communities
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Video: Myles Morgan & Andrea Booth, NITV News: NT Minister expects migration if WA communities close
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: https://www.facebook.com/sosblakaustralia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
Maori Party letter to the Australian Prime Minister
WGAR News: Maori Party issues scathing letter to Tony Abbott regarding treatment of Aboriginal people: Claire Trevett, New Zealand Herald
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/21/wgar-news-maori-party-issues-scathing-letter-to-tony-abbott-regarding-treatment-of
Contents:
* Analysis / Opinion: Belinda Grant Geary, Daily Mail Australia: ‘The first thing that strikes me about Australia is how racist this place is’: Writer claims our treatment of Aborigines is WORSE than apartheid South Africa
* Analysis / Opinion: Sisonke Msimang, Africa is a Country: Is There a Place Where White People Are More Committed to Faux Race Blindness than South Africa?
* News Analysis: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: Maori Leader Brands Tony Abbott A ‘Racist B*stard’ Over Remote Closure Plans
* News Analysis: Eru Rerekura, Radio New Zealand News: Harawira has message for Australian PM
* Media Release: Maori Party letter to the Australian Prime Minister
* Video: Te Karere TVNZ, YouTube: Maori Party calls out Australian PM on treatment of Aboriginal people
* News Analysis: Claire Trevett, New Zealand Herald: Maori Party issues scathing letter to Tony Abbott regarding treatment of Aboriginal people
* News: Dan Conifer, ABC News: New Zealand Maori Party condemns potential closure of Aboriginal communities in open letter to Tony Abbott
* News Analysis & Video: Numia Ponika-Rangi, Maori Television: Opposition groups enraged ahead of Abbotts arrival to NZ
* News Analysis & Video: Rewa Harriman, Maori Television: Native Affairs – End Of The Dreamtime
* Latest News & Videos: Top topic: Australia – Maori Television
* Statement: Green Left: New NT group says fund and support self-determination for Aboriginal communities
* Audio: Warren Barnsley, NIRS: Community closures threaten spiritual identity: KALACC
* Upcoming Event: 1 May 2015, Rally at Belmore Park, Sydney – National Day of Action: Speakers: Aunty Jenny Munro, John Pilger, Gwenda Stanley & reps from WA communities
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: https://www.facebook.com/sosblakaustralia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
* WGAR Background: Aboriginal Peoples and the impact of the Federal Budget
John Pilger – war correspondent, film-maker and author
WGAR News: Evicting Indigenous Australians from their homelands is a declaration of war: John Pilger, The Guardian
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/23/wgar-news-evicting-indigenous-australians-from-their-homelands-is-a-declaration-of-war
Contents:
* Analysis / Opinion: John Pilger, The Guardian: Evicting Indigenous Australians from their homelands is a declaration of war
* Video Special report back: Paddy Gibson, Stop the Intervention: First Nations Peoples and Australian Government Policy – What happened to the Intervention? 20 April 2015
* News Analysis & Video: Maiki Sherman, Maori Television: Protest against closure of Aboriginal communities continues to gain momentum
* News: Maiki Sherman, Maori Television: Marama Fox to attend protest against closure of Aboriginal communities in Australia
* Latest News & Videos: Indigenous – Maori Television: http://www.maoritelevision.com/news/latest-news/indigenous
* News Analysis: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: Maori Leader Brands Tony Abbott A ‘Racist B*stard’ Over Remote Closure Plans
* Community Solidarity Action Sign-on Statement: Green Left: New NT group says fund and support self-determination for Aboriginal communities
* Upcoming Event: 1 May 2015, Melbourne – rally and march against the forced closures of Aboriginal communities, facebook
* Upcoming Event: 1 May 2015, Sydney Rally May 1: National Day of Action: Stop the forced closure of Aboriginal communities, Stoptheintervention_announce
* Event Call: Mudgin-Gal calls for organisations to close early May 1 in solidarity with NDA, Stoptheintervention_announce
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: https://www.facebook.com/sosblakaustralia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA
* WGAR Background: Aboriginal Peoples and the impact of the Federal Budget
Kimberley Land Council condemns community closures at UN
WGAR News: ‘Systemic Racism’ Of WA Remote Community Closures Savaged At United Nations: Amy McQuire, New Matilda
https://indymedia.org.au/2015/04/23/wgar-news-systemic-racism-of-wa-remote-community-closures-savaged-at-united-nations-amy
Contents:
* News Analysis: Amy McQuire, New Matilda: ‘Systemic Racism’ Of WA Remote Community Closures Savaged At United Nations
* News Analysis: Kimberley Land Council: KLC condemns community closures at United Nations
* News Analysis: Calla Wahlquist, The Guardian: UN forum backs fight against closure of remote Aboriginal communities in WA
* Audio Interview: RN Drive, ABC: Australian lawyer to chair top UN indigenous body [Featuring Megan Davis]
* Background: UN News Centre: As Forum opens, deputy UN chief says 2015 a ‘critical year’ for world’s indigenous peoples
* Background: United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues: Fourteenth Session of the Permanent Forum
* Analysis / Opinion: John Pilger.com, The secret country again wages war on its own people
* News: Online News Team, Maori Television: Events planned worldwide to support Aboriginal communities on May 1st
* News: Maiki Sherman, Maori Television: Labour outlines concerns on Aborigine communities in letter to Australian Labor Party
* Latest News & Videos: Indigenous – Maori Television: http://www.maoritelevision.com/news/latest-news/indigenous
* News & Video: Phil Hickey, Perth Now: Heirisson Island camp Indigenous leaders protest at State Parliament
* News: Brendan Foster, WA Today: Parliament House protest: ugly scenes as police make arrests
* Facebook: The Stringer: “Official statement from Elder Bella Bropho, of the Matargarup First Nations Refugee Camp”
* Event Poster: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia, facebook: “We would like to confirm that that 2nd National Call of Action will be held Friday 1st May 2015.”
* Facebook: Stop the Forced Closure of Aboriginal Communities in Australia: https://www.facebook.com/sosblakaustralia
* WGAR Background: Plans to close Aboriginal homelands / remote communities in WA and SA