The current "Welcome to country" is divisive and racist. I'm suggesting an alternative Acknowledgment of Australian people.
" We acknowledge the people arriving in Australia from England initially and since then from all parts of the world, and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay our respect to Elders past and present. We recognize the diverse aspirations of those peoples for self-determination, economic justice and generational impact. The Charity Register includes organizations of all sizes with wide ranging ambitions and responsibilities to manage land and resources, advance education, promote culture, stimulate entrepreneurship and provide core community services. We recognize that the language of ‘charity’ does not resonate with First Nations organizations and communities. We also recognize that the other occupants of this great land at that time were quite primitive, with many tribes scattered sparsely throughout the country. We recognize that these first settlers endured harsh conditions which involved a long ocean voyage, then arrive at a new home and a new start to a new life. The Nations organizations play a critical role in harnessing the wisdom and strengths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to provide effective governance and drive community led outcomes. We also acknowledge our shared history and the impact of colonization on First Nations people. Our vision is for charities that inspire confidence and respect. In delivering this vision, it is essential that we incorporate the expertise, experience and aspirations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We deeply value the contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples make to our organization and to the broader not-for-profit sector. Our journey together so far; Equality of all Australians got off to a rocky start but over the last few years progress towards equality has seen equality become a factual reality. This commitment was the opportunity to strengthen the accountability measures that accompanies any meaningful commitment to reconciliation. We now have a successful Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities Engagement Strategy and Action Plan."
