“We are beckoned to see the world through a one-way mirror, as if we are threatened and innocent and the rest of humanity is threatening, or wretched, or expendable. Our memory is struggling to rescue the truth that human rights were not handed down as privileges from a parliament, or a boardroom, or an institution, but that peace is only possible with justice and with information that gives us the power to act justly.”
― John Pilger

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Explain to me: Why is the government closing remote Aboriginal communities?

By Rebecca Mitchell 

Mamamia - 24 March 2015

If you haven’t been part of them, you’ve most likely at least heard of the recent protests against the closure of remote Aboriginal communities in Western Australia.  You may have seen #SOSBlakAustralia trending on Facebook last week. Or maybe you follow Hugh Jackman on Instagram.  Maybe you heard Tony Abbott say the government couldn’t subsidise “lifestyle choices” and the collective horrified gasp that followed.  But chances are you’re asking — what the hell is going on? 
Today, we’re here to explain. 
Last year, the Federal government announced it would stop funding essential services in remote Australian communities — essentially transferring this responsibility to the states.  Last week, WA Premier Colin Barnett said his state would have to “close” between 100 to 150 Indigenous communities, as a result.

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