A rally was held in New South Wales over the weekend to oppose constitutional changes that many believe will “divide the nation along racial lines.” The event, organized to say ‘No to the Voice,’ attracted attendees from across the state who questioned the wisdom of voting ‘Yes’ to a proposal that lacks clear details.
Former United Australia Party MP Craig Kelly and Member of the Legislative Council John Ruddick were among the speakers at the rally. Kelly expressed his support for the ‘No’ campaign, stating, “A lot of people say the ‘No’ case should be hidden away. But we’re here to support it because a ‘no’ victory would be a great day for this nation.”
Critics of the proposed constitutional amendment argue that it would have unintended consequences, fostering divisions and creating a two-tiered system based on ethnicity. Kelly commented, “What they’re trying to do to this constitution is insert a racially divisive provision. This would entrench separatism, which is exactly what we’re against.”
Contrary to media portrayals that paint the ‘No’ camp as primarily white supremacists, indigenous people were significantly represented at the rally. Kelly observed, “If I look behind me, there are more Indigenous Australians than any other group here.” This highlights the diversity of opinions within the ‘No’ camp, with indigenous people voting against the proposal for various reasons.
John Ruddick emphasized the importance of giving indigenous people a platform to voice their opposition. He said, “There are aboriginal people here today voting ‘No’ for different reasons, and we wanted to give them a platform.”
As the referendum approaches on October 14, attendees stressed that voting ‘No’ is more than acceptable, and it does not make one anti-aboriginal or a white supremacist. The rally aimed to raise awareness about the potential negative consequences of the proposed constitutional changes and to encourage informed decision-making among voters.
The event provided an opportunity for like-minded individuals to come together and unite under a common cause. Similar to past referendums, diverse groups have united against the proposed changes, highlighting the significance of protecting the constitution from amendments that could undermine national unity.
In summary, the rally opposing constitutional changes that will “divide the nation along racial lines” attracted attendees from across New South Wales. Critics argue that the proposed amendments lack clear details and could foster divisions and create a two-tiered system based on ethnicity. Indigenous people were well-represented at the rally, demonstrating the diversity of opinions within the ‘No’ camp. The speakers emphasized the importance of giving indigenous people a platform to voice their opposition and stressed that voting ‘No’ does not make one anti-aboriginal or a white supremacist. The event aimed to raise awareness and encourage informed decision-making ahead of the upcoming referendum.
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