Dr. Gertz reflected on her experiences campaigning for the Yes 23 Voice referendum in Townsville, highlighting a shared desire among First Nations and non-Indigenous communities to understand the Uluru Statement from the Heart. Despite facing challenges, including low civics knowledge and instances of racism, Dr. Gertz emphasized the potential for unity across diverse political affiliations, noting that 6.2 million people supported constitutional change.
She proposed a new approach to reconciliation that embraces diversity and respects political differences, advocating for self-determining spaces for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to define their social, cultural, and economic priorities. Dr. Gertz stressed the need for strong political leadership that prioritizes genuine engagement over reactive policymaking and called for education reform to improve understanding of colonial history and Indigenous self-determination.
Ultimately, she urged both Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to commit to a long-term vision for reconciliation, grounded in allyship and mutual respect.
