Following the week of silence by First Nations organisations and leaders, we recognise the concerns regarding what has been called an ‘unbelievable and appalling’ result in the referendum, denying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples recognition in the Constitution and the establishment of an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice.
In breaking their week of silence, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and leaders have stated: “Our right to be heard continues to exist both as a democratic imperative for this nation and as our inherent right to self-determination.”
Market Forces reaffirms solidarity with First Nations communities and our commitment to uplift their voices in the fight to protect Country and culture from fossil fuel projects and the climate destruction they cause.
We therefore reaffirm the following points made in our statement in support of the Voice:
Market Forces acknowledges our work takes place on lands of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, whose sovereignty has never been ceded.
We pay our respect to Elders, past and present, and acknowledge that First Nations Peoples hold unique knowledge and rights inherited from their ancestors and the land.
We acknowledge the vital and ongoing role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have played for millennia caring for Country.
As an organisation working with communities to prevent financing of activities that would harm the environment and worsen global warming, Market Forces stands in solidarity with – and works to amplify the voices of – First Nations communities affected by environmentally damaging decisions taken by corporations and governments. We strongly believe First Nations Peoples must have a say in policy decisions that affect them.
We recognise that substantive, structural change is required to deliver First Nations justice. We continue to support the implementation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, including treaty making and truth-telling.
Market Forces will continue to find appropriate opportunities to support efforts towards First Nations justice, alongside our work driving finance and investment away from polluting fossil fuels.
You can learn more about and support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led campaigns for justice, such as: