Activist and singer headline University’s NAIDOC celebrations

Aboriginal Tent Embassy co-founder Michael Anderson and Casey Donovan, Australian Idol and Deadly Award winner, are the special guests of Southern Cross University’s annual NAIDOC family celebrations from July 17 to 20.

Mr Anderson will reflect on the struggles by Australia’s Indigenous peoples for equality and land rights, while Ms Donovan will perform her songs. They will visit each of the University’s three campuses.

The theme for NAIDOC 2012 is ‘Spirit of the Tent Embassy: 40 years on’.

Mr Anderson said the Tent Embassy remained as relevant as it first was 40 years ago when he established it on the lawn of Old Parliament House.

“The fact that the Tent Embassy continues to operate indicates to everyone concerned, and not only Aboriginal people, that there is still something terribly wrong,” he said.

Mr Anderson expected the Tent Embassy to remain in place until a compact treaty arrangement was drawn up with the state and federal governments and territories.

“A treaty will create a pathway where Aboriginal people will take ownership, and in some cases joint ownership, of programming in Aboriginal affairs rather than the current policy of total assimilation,” he said.

NAIDOC celebrations are an opportunity to share and acknowledge the history, culture and achievements of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The events are free of charge and the community is welcome to attend. Details are:

Gold Coast campus - Tuesday July 17, 11am – 3pm
11.45am – 12.15pm Address by Michael Anderson
12.20pm – 1.20pm Casey Donovan performs

Coffs Harbour campus - Thursday July 19, 11am – 3pm
11.45am – 12.15pm Address by Michael Anderson
12.20pm – 1.20pm Casey Donovan performs

Lismore campus - Friday July 20, 11am – 3pm
11.45am – 12.15pm Address by Michael Anderson
12.20pm – 1.20pm Casey Donovan performs

RSVP (for catering purposes) via email scuiecc@scu.edu.au or 02 6620 3955.

Other activities include dancing, music, arts and crafts, face painting, information stalls, workshops, sausage sizzles and a photo exhibition.

For more information, go to scu.edu.au/scuiecc/
Photo: Casey Donovan, Australian Idol and Deadly Award winner.