Investigation reveals possible unmarked graves on Aboriginal missions, focusing on Kinchla Boys' home. Survivors share traumatic experiences of abuse, lack of education, and harsh punishments. Unearthing buried stories highlights the emotional impact and community response. Reporters shed light on stolen generations and First Nations ambassador appointment. The struggle for Indigenous rights and land protection is discussed. Challenges faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in building relationships with government officials explored. Speaker reflects on their role as Ambassador for First Nations people in Australia.
The Ambassador for First Nations People is responsible for integrating Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and priorities into Australia's foreign policy, contributing to global discussions and solutions.
The role of the Ambassador for First Nations People provides an opportunity to challenge existing structures and processes, collaborate with other nations, and promote recognition and respect for Indigenous peoples globally.
Deep dives
Role of the Ambassador for First Nations People
The Ambassador for First Nations People is a new role within the Australian government, aimed at promoting Indigenous trade, investment, and rights globally. This is the first position of its kind in the world and presents an opportunity to create and shape a new space in foreign affairs for First Nations people. The ambassador's responsibilities include engaging with Indigenous communities and organizations across Australia through domestic consultations and dialogues to understand their priorities and perspectives. The aim is to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and represented in international forums on key issues such as climate change, international trade, human rights, gender, health, and justice. The ambassador is also focused on building strong relationships with other countries, promoting international trade routes, and highlighting the innovation and knowledge that First Nations people in Australia possess. The objective is to embed First Nations knowledge and expertise into Australia's foreign policy, contributing to global discussions and solutions. The ambassador's role is to bring diversity to the forefront and acknowledge the unique perspectives and priorities of different First Nations communities while working towards meaningful change and progress on the international stage.
Challenges and Opportunities
The role of the Ambassador for First Nations People comes with both challenges and opportunities. Working within the government system as a First Nations person brings the challenge of advocating for Indigenous rights and needs, navigating changes in government personnel and policies, and addressing the disparities in healthcare, education, and other areas. However, being in this position also offers the opportunity to influence and shape foreign affairs, trade, and diplomacy to integrate Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and priorities. The role provides an avenue to challenge existing structures and processes, and to collaborate with other nations to promote recognition, reconciliation, and respect for Indigenous peoples globally. The diverse perspectives and experiences of First Nations people in Australia are seen as valuable contributions to addressing global challenges, such as climate change, and to building stronger relationships and trade routes with other countries. The role seeks to bring about positive change and ensure that First Nations people are not sidelined, but actively involved in shaping Australia's international engagements.
Domestic Consultations and International Engagement
The Ambassador for First Nations People has embarked on a series of domestic consultations and dialogues across Australia to understand the priorities and perspectives of Indigenous communities and organizations. These consultations involve engaging with various groups, including traditional owner groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people working in government, business owners, and others. The feedback and input received during these consultations play a crucial role in informing global discussions, shaping international trade routes, and promoting Indigenous knowledge and expertise. Additionally, the ambassador aims to represent Australia in international forums, highlighting the diversity and innovation of First Nations people and their contributions to tackling global issues such as climate change, trade, human rights, health, and justice. The goal is to build strong relationships with other countries, present a more inclusive and representative image of Australia, and advocate for Indigenous rights and recognition on the global stage.
The Vision and Optimism of Ambassador Mohammed
Ambassador Justin Mohammed approaches his role with optimism and a vision for meaningful change. He draws energy and inspiration from his community, family, and the potential opportunities presented by the new position. His objective is to bring First Nations people to the forefront in Australia's international diplomacy and trade, and he is committed to ensuring their voices are heard and their rights acknowledged. He aims to showcase the diversity and knowledge that Indigenous communities possess, and to challenge traditional Western-centric approaches in foreign affairs. Ambassador Mohammed's focus is on delivering results that positively impact First Nations people across Australia, creating a stronger presence and influence for Indigenous communities in global discussions and decisions.