South Australian peak body for Aboriginal health
Friday, February 15, 2008
Mrs Mary Buckskin, Chief Executive Officer of the state peak body representing Aboriginal health and substance misuse services, and Aboriginal health advisory committees in South Australia, commends Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for his apology to the stolen generations.
Mrs Buckskin and other delegates from the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia Inc. were in Canberra to receive the long awaited apology to Australia’s Indigenous peoples.
“We want to commend Rudd and the Labor government for their prompt action in apologising so soon after their election win and for making it significant on the first sitting day of the new parliament.
“It was an emotional and historic moment for all Aboriginal people. Yesterday the nation said Sorry, today Aboriginal people can finally move forward to the future.
“The act of saying Sorry has given Aboriginal people the acknowledgement we needed to open the door to healing the pain, suffering and hurt, and the many symptomatic responses affecting our health, social and economic disadvantage.
“It was a major step forward but only the first and I again commend Prime Minister Rudd for acknowledging the action required to improve the life expectancy, educational achievement and economic opportunity of Aboriginal people.
“It will take many years, perhaps generations, to right the wrongs of the past but at least now we know affirmative action will be taken.
“We can also walk proud knowing that we have been acknowledged as equal partners with other Australians, and as equally deserving of the opportunities to create the future.
“The Aboriginal Health Council is proud to support the Rudd government’s approach to come together to reconcile and together build a new future for our nation.
“As the state peak body for all Aboriginal health and substance misuse services, and Aboriginal health advisory committees in South Australia, the Aboriginal Health Council will provide members with support and lead the way to a better future.
