Kaz Kelly
I was lucky enough to grow up with parents who have been vocal about the mistreatment of First Nations people and their land. I have known from a very young age that I walk on stolen land and have grown up (luckily) learning about Indigenous art, language, culture and my families own history with local Indigenous groups.
My childhood brings me to today. Being part of the Yes23 movement was a no brainer! I have a duty, due to my privilege, to be an active campaigner. To be a voice for YES.
To be asked now at 35 to say YES to changing our constitution to include Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders is another privilege and one we must take seriously. I feel I have a duty to my friends, family, community, employees and the wider First Nations Community to lead by example and not only vote YES but to educate and make time to speak with those around me about why it is important.
I don't want to be asked this question again in 30yrs. Oct 14th will be a true reflection on our country and I hope that by now we have matured enough as a nation to know that we must say YES now. Older generations owe my generation this and I owe younger generations this. It is time we walk together. To actually be making strides towards equality where an Indigenous life is valued, respected, cared for and loved as much as mine.