Making amends: is reparation in sight for the NSW Stolen Generations?

The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) is bringing together leaders in the Aboriginal community, members of parliament and the Stolen Generations to examine the way forward prior to the NSW Upper House inquiry into reparations for the Stolen Generations.

Members of the public and the media are invited to attend this free event at NSW Parliament House.

‘Almost two decades after the 1996 ‘Bringing Them Home’ report, a committee of the NSW Upper House is assessing the response of the NSW Government to its recommendation for reparations. This could finally lead to proper compensation for members of the Stolen Generations and their descendants for the trauma the removals policy caused,’ said PIAC’s CEO, Edward Santow.

‘This inquiry is an important opportunity for the NSW community to have their say on how best to make amends for the devastating impact of past laws and policies on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.’ 

‘We know that the forced removal of Aboriginal children from their families has had life-long tragic consequences for those taken, and continues to profoundly affect Aboriginal communities throughout NSW.

‘The Australian Government’s apology was an important step towards reconciliation. It is time for the NSW Government to reflect on its role in the removal of Aboriginal children and make reparations,’ said Edward Santow.

Speakers include :

• Linda Burney MP, Shadow Minister for Aboriginal Affairs 
• Kirstie Parker, Co-Chair, National Congress of Australia’s First Peoples
• Uncle Michael Welsh, a survivor of Kinchela Boys Home and advocate for the Stolen Generations
• Aunty Wilma Moran, a survivor of Cootamundra Girls Home and advocate for the Stolen Generations  
• Jan Barham MLC, Chair of the parliamentary committee undertaking the inquiry
• Katie Kiss, moderator and PIAC Board Director

When/ where: Thursday 17 September, 12:30- 2 pm, Theatrette, NSW Parliament House, Macquarie Street, Sydney.