Tourism Industry Endorses National Apology
Australia’s tourism industry has endorsed Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s national apology to the Stolen Generations.
The nation’s peak tourism industry group, TTF Australia (Tourism & Transport Forum), today urged all Australians to unite behind its parliamentarians in recognising the wrongs of the past, and working to advance the cause of reconciliation.
TTF Australia’s Managing Director Christopher Brown said the national apology was an important symbolic step.
“The apology cannot undo the past, nor can it directly address the tragedy of disadvantage in Aboriginal communities.”
“But it can send a powerful message to all Australians, and to the rest of the world, that Australia is a caring community, and is determined to build a better future for its people.”
Mr Brown said Australia’s indigenous peoples were integral to the story of our land, and to our sense of national identity.
“The national consciousness embraces the values of justice, fairness, and equality – and is built on a sense of fraternity between all Australians.”
“We have adopted the symbolism of Aboriginal place names, and we share a sense of connection to the land.”
“For visitors to our country, Aboriginal cultural heritage is an essential component of an authentic Australian experience.”
“Conversely, the tourism sector plays an important role in spreading the story of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and increasing community awareness of indigenous issues.”
“Tourism will continue to provide employment and enterprise opportunities for indigenous Australians through nature-based tourism experiences, art and community development.” “TTF Australia is the peak national industry group representing tourism, transport and infrastructure.” “It comprises the chief executives of the 200 most prestigious investors, operators, regulators and developers across Australia.”
“In recent years however, our treatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and our commitment to values of justice and fairness, have been called into question – both at home and abroad.”
“We have had to face up to our past, and consider the type of Australia we want for the future.”
“Recognising where we have come from will help us mature as a nation.”
“After the shame of the Stolen Generation, the bitterness of the Cronulla riots, and the controversy over Tampa and Kyoto, today’s apology reasserts the notion of Australia as a caring, inclusive community.”
“It’s a message we should take to the heart, and send to the world.”
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