Walk for Makarrata in Sydney -  One Message, One Goal, Many Voices

A campaign for Makarrata launches in Sydney on Thursday August 9, when Aboriginal people and their supporters will walk from Hyde Park to the NSW Parliament.

Led by the NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) and Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations (CAPO), the walk will call on Parliamentarians to join a movement for a better future for Aboriginal people, and all Australians.

NSWALC Chairman, Cr Roy Ah-See said that the walk will promote a positive alternative agenda for Aboriginal affairs in the state.

"Our desire for Makarrata is about self-determination, genuine partnership and moving beyond survival.  It's about putting our future into our own hands," Cr Ah-See said.

Makarrata is gift from the Yolngu language. It means coming together after a struggle. It has been used nationally since the National Aboriginal Conference in the late 1970's and featured prominently in the historic Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Cr Ah-See said Makarrata was needed because the Apology and successive reforms from both sides of politics have not on their own delivered healing and unity for the nation, or enough progress for Aboriginal people.

"What we have seen to date are disconnected stepping stones towards a vague future focused on survival. What we need is a clear pathway for Aboriginal people to thrive, and for all Australians to walk with us on this journey.

"Our successes have been many, but we still face significant challenges.  We want to see increased prosperity for Aboriginal families across the state, with more of our people going to university and getting better jobs.

"We want to see our children flourishing; walking proudly and successfully in two worlds. Taking part in the economy and enriching the country with their culture.

"By walking with us we are asking all political parties to commit to genuine partnership, to face our challenges together, and grow and support our successes.

"NSW is where the struggle started, and it is right that the largest state, with the largest population of Aboriginal people in the country takes genuine steps towards Makarrata,

"We are looking for all Australians to join us on our journey towards Makarrata," Cr Ah-See said.

Walk with us, join us at www.makarrata.org.au

MEDIA CONTACT:Michelle Aleksandrovics 0429 585 291

The Beyond Survival Walk for Aboriginal Rights is on Thursday August 9, starting at 11am.

It will leave from Hyde Park North, corner of Elizabeth and Park Street, to NSW Parliament House.

Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/838450799683432/