The First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria strongly condemns the racist attack during the Welcome to Country at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service in Melbourne.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a long and proud history of serving and sacrifice for this Country.
Wamba Wamba, Yorta Yorta, Dhudhuroa and Dja Dja Wurrung woman, and Assembly Co-Chair, Ngarra Murray, expressed disappointment that the Welcome to Country was not observed with respect during the service.
“As First Peoples we love sharing our culture, we want to see it recognised and respected and for everyone to be able to celebrate it together,” said Ms Murray.
First Peoples’ Assembly Co-Chair, Gunditjmara man, Rueben Berg paid tribute to Bunurong Elder, Uncle Mark Brown, for his resilience.
“We stand in solidarity with Bunurong Elder, Uncle Mark Brown, and acknowledge his strength and resolve during the disruption,” said Mr Berg.
