Thought Leadership

There is a subtle but important part of the National Apology- the apology is specifically, and rightfully, from the government on behalf of the past institutionalised racism against the Indigenous peoples of Australia. The apology is not an individual one on behalf of the people of Australia.

You may want to read this in the FAQ for further verification.

This is a very important distinction, because there should be no guilt by association. Simply because we are Australians, the crime against the Indigenous peoples was not perpetrated by us, but by past Governments. The Federal government is rightfully apologising on behalf of the previous governments who perpetrated the crime. No single Australian is being asked or burdened by the disgraceful actions of the past Australian Governments.

This principle, of No Guilt by Association, is a very Islamic Principle, initiated by the Prophetic Tradition of Muhammad, upon whom be peace and blessings of God Almighty. In including this very important distinction, the Federal Government has indeed worked hard to maintain high standards of justice in the Apology.

What many people have failed to understand over the past decade has been the emotional harm that has been caused by the refusal to say sorry. On the face of it - a simple act - described in denigrating terms by some as a merely 'symbolic' action relating to events in our distant past.

Read the full article by Tom Calma, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner, here.

1. An excellent link, including FAQs can be found on this official website.

2.Click here to read the Prime minister's Address to the Welcome to Country Opening of the 42nd Federal Parliament. 

3. Click here for ABC's dedicated page on events, opinions and news on The Apology. 

4. Click here to watch the Welcome to Country ceremony.