Learning Links recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waterways and skies across Australia and thanks them for sharing and caring for the land on which we live, work, learn and play.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have demonstrated strength, resilience and a dedication to learning and growing over many tens of thousands of years. For Learning Links, a commitment to reconciliation is essential to achieving our organisational mission of supporting children and young people – from all cultures, backgrounds and experiences – who have difficulties learning to realise their full potential. We have worked with Aboriginal peoples in many of the communities we reach and have seen first-hand the life-changing outcomes that can be achieved when evidence-based approaches are applied in a culturally-safe way, guided by Aboriginal peoples and their Elders.
We have come to understand the importance of listening and placing the voices, experiences and wishes of Aboriginal peoples at the centre of our work.
In the same respect, we believe that meaningful outcomes arise in the broader community when the voices of those directly impacted are heard. The need for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to have a say in their own lives has been at the heart of reconciliation for decades.
Through our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan, Learning Links pledged its support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart and Indigenous Constitutional Recognition through a Voice to Parliament.
The Uluru Statement from the Heart invites Australians to walk together towards a better future for all. Learning Links accepts this invitation and is committed to taking action to create a fairer and more equal Australia.
We believe that a ‘yes’ vote in the upcoming referendum on a First Nations Voice to Parliament will recognise 65,000 years of indigenous connection to this land and establish a practical path to better outcomes for First Nations people and a brighter future for all of us.
Learning Links respects each individual’s right to form their own views and opinions, however encourage all members of the community to educate themselves and understand the facts on what their vote could mean in the referendum in the coming weeks. Together, we can all make a difference and take meaningful steps to support reconciliation and a fair, just and humane society.
Resources and Information
Find out more about the Uluru Statement from the Heart
Reconciliation Australia’s guide to the Voice to Parliament