Gordon Reid (Robertson, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise to commend Umina Beach Public School, my former primary school, on a moving Reconciliation Week assembly. Reconciliation Week is a time that we as a nation reflect on our shared history with our First Nations people. It is also a time we continue along the path to reconciliation in Australia. The students at Umina Beach Public School demonstrated their deep understanding of Reconciliation Week through their brilliant traditional First Nations dance presentation and discussing knowledge of First Nations histories, like the 1967 referendum. It was an impressive and informative assembly for students, teachers, parents and carers. I was moved by the beautiful rendition of 'From Little Things Big Things Grow' sung by First Nations students.

The students also listened carefully while I provided a description of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags and what the colours meant. This year Australians across our great nation will again have an opportunity to be a part of history. By voting 'yes' to constitutionally enshrine First Nations people, to recognise our First Nations people and to establish an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament, you will be contributing to the continuing journey of reconciliation in Australia, bringing us all closer together. I will—and I encourage all Australians to—have an open heart, listen, understand and vote yes.