I can remember walking across the bridge and realising our little group was walking beside Richard Court and one of his brothers. I really admired him for the easy way he and his brother just blended in when he had a significant role in WA Politics.
Why did you Walk for Reconciliation in the year 2000?
I guess my church background makes me very aware of the rights of all people and that we are all brothers and sisters. I had an Aboriginal ‘sister’ who chose to live with us in Melbourne after holidaying with us from Qld a few times so knew a little of her background as well as the wider issues. In 1991 I was at the launch of the song Treaty and would love to see that happen.
What has changed in the last 20 years?
I don’t think much has changed in 20 years – the Bringing Them Home Report changed a few people dramatically but overall seems to have had little impact.
What is your vision of Reconciliation for the next 20 years?"
I would like to see good, integrated education for all so we learn something of each other’s culture. I am very aware that a lot of Aboriginal, and often poorer, people miss out on the early education that comes in homes where there are educated parents and lots of books etc.
However I think we need to remember all those Indigenous people who have achieved a good deal and hold responsible positions, who write great books, who are amongst the professionals in our society and who are great sports people so that the picture of Aboriginal people is a positive one.
