Against the backdrop of Sorry Day, research released today by Caritas Australia shows that over two-thirds of Australians believe it is important for the Federal Government to address the legacy of the Stolen Generations. This sentiment is even stronger amongst younger Australians, with 82 percent of 18-34 year olds believing that addressing the legacy is important.
"The time is now to address this legacy – our Stolen Generations are getting older and we must listen and learn from them in order to heal as a nation," said Christine Rhazi, Caritas Australia First Australia Programs Associate Director.
"Australians clearly agree that as a nation we have a responsibility to address and learn from the wrongs of our past."
Australians also want to see more support for the Stolen Generations across key areas, with two thirds (68 per cent) believing the Federal Government should do more to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities with health issues.
Further, 62 per cent believe that there should be more support for education, while just over half believe that funding should increase for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led organisations.
Kinchela Boys Home (KBH) Survivor, Uncle Richard Campbell, #28* said that compared to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the same age group, Stolen Generations Survivors are suffering more financially, socially and in areas of health and wellbeing.
"This disadvantage extends to our descendants who also consistently experience poorer health and social outcomes. We are making changes with our truth telling but change isn't happening fast enough. We are the invisible gap that will be left behind," said Uncle Richard.
A resounding three quarters of people feel that schools should be required to teach about the Stolen Generations and the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"The more truths we tell our children about our past, the more hope we have for a better future for the new generations", said Christine Rhazi.
"We must celebrate our elders – we must remember always their history and we must honour their legacy," she said.
*This is the number that was used in place of Uncle Richard's name during his time at KBH.
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Christine Rhazi, Caritas Australia's First Australians Associate Director is
