Individual or Group Submission03/11/24

Wayne Parkin

Wayne Parkin, a Trawlwulwuy man, discusses been marginalised and disengaged, as they are not seen as "local". They emphasise the importance of genuine truth-telling and the concept of self-determination as a poor substitute for real life. He calls for future generations to take responsibility for their actions and focus on improvement rather than seeking reparations for historical wrongdoings.

Topics: Other topic

Submission Transcription

What does it feel like to be an Aboriginal person living in Victoria?

Disengaged, as I am not “local” i am marginalised as not belonging, as I travel country why should I have to buy a permit from a mob to pass thru country, should my voice not carry the same away as home with respect to others that I also expect to be shown.

What are the most important things you want people to know about your experiences?

That we all live together but allow a few big mouths to show us all in poor light instead of telling them shut up and sit down, discuss don’t dictate, also that truth has real meaning, not something that is convienient or manufactured to suit a circumstance.

What does self-determination look like to you?

A poor substitute for real life, if you want a nation to become nothing but families taking for themselves and squabbling to the detriment of others go ahead. When you have two systems governing two seperate races living in one space there can be no accord especially when an absolute minority wants more say and control at the others expense than can ever be justified. Comes a point where a wailing petulant demanding child has to be made aware that their privileged lifestyle can be
taken away.

What changes do you want to see for your children and grandchildren?

I want them to take responsibility for their own action and realise that consequences are real. That history is is in the past and while lessons can be taken time cannot be turned back. I want future generations to work for betterment not repatriations for historical wrongdoings. I want them to be better.

/  0
100%
Loading PDF…

Truth-teller consent

First Peoples who make submissions to Yoorrook have provided their consent for the Commission to use their submission for the purposes of conducting Yoorrook’s work. Ownership of First Peoples’ submissions remains with the author of the submission. Their permission may be required to use their submission for any other purposes.
Read more about indigenous data sovereignty

Contact us about this submission

People who provided evidence to Yoorrook have full control over their own data and how it is used.
Contact us if you’d like to discuss this submission.
Contact us

Similar submissions

Explore submissions from other witnesses that discuss similar topics.

Individual or Group SubmissionIndividual or Group Submission

Meyer Eidelson

Meyer Eidelson is the President of the Middle Park and Albert Park History Group. The submission discusses the former Aboriginal Graveyard 1842 at Que... more

Reports and Recommendations

Read the official reports and recommendations of the Yoorrook Justice Commission. 

Yoorrook for Transformation

Third Interim Report: A five-volume comprehensive reform report presenting evidence and findings on systemic injustices, and specific recommendations for meaningful change to transform the future, will be available in the coming month. 

Truth Be Told

An official public record that documents First Peoples experiences since colonisation, preserves crucial testimonies for future generations and creates an enduring resource for education and understanding, will be available in the coming month.

Recommendations for change

Yoorrook Justice Commission’s recommendations for truth-telling, justice, and systemic reform in Victoria.

Take Action

Explore ways to take action and connect with organisations supporting truth and justice.