Inner West Council has announced it will train 1,000 local citizens in a civic education program to build awareness about the Uluru Statement from the Heart and the upcoming Referendum on the Voice to Parliament.
The program was proposed by Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne at last month’s Council meeting and passed unanimously.
“This Referendum is only months away and there isn’t a moment to lose in building public awareness about this historic opportunity,” Mayor Byrne said.
“Now is the time for the Inner West community to step up and contribute to educating our neighbours about the Uluru Statement from the Heart.”
Mayor Byrne said the training program would build on the momentum of a public forum (pictured) the Council held in June with Minister for Indigenous Australians, Linda Burney, which more than 600 people attended.
“When Minister Burney walked into Marrickville Town Hall she received a standing ovation,” Mayor Byrne said.
“Everyone there knew this was an important moment in time and that this chance, for a just settlement with Aboriginal people, will not come again.
“We will seek 1000 volunteers to be involved in this project. We are aiming to train local citizens to talk to their neighbours but also travel to other communities in Sydney and NSW to build awareness there too.
“I believe what we are doing should be a model for councils all over Australia,” he said.
The Inner West is partnering with the Sydney Alliance to provide the training program and coordinate the recruitment campaign as well as making town halls and facilities available for the training free of charge.
Volunteer for the Uluru Statement from The Heart and referendum | Your Say Inner West.
