Our Generation: Review and thoughts by John Lawson and others
On Saturday evening 19 people watched the human rights film, ‘Our Generation’. It sets out the injustices continuing in the Northern Territory so clearly that everyone who saw it felt it worth spending 40 minutes after the film discussing the issues.
Unfortunately the solutions aren’t as clear as the injustice. Both Labor and Liberal governments have wanted to trade aid for mining rights. Both have supported moving Yolngu people from their traditional lands and healthy traditional food to a few towns, where problems such as diabetes abound. The response of the Minister who responded to a complaint about not consulting the Yolngu, by saying, “No one was consulted.”
In the face of such attitudes, it was felt the most effective action would be to make Australian friends aware of the issues, preferably by watching the DVD (Google our generation). If enough watch it, it will become an issue in the coming election.
The many injustices here were also noted. Some will be heard later this year, when the Waitangi Tribunal turns its attention to Whaingaroa. It was noted that the film audience didn’t reflect that the last census said Māori formed 29.8% of Raglan’s population. A showing at the Kokiri Centre is being considered, but it was felt that lack of mutual understanding of Māori and Pakeha cultures was a barrier for many, and not just in watching films. Is it a problem you perceive? If so, what would help, a course, or what? Ring me (John) with your ideas please – 825 7866.