Reconciliation and Social Justice Library

REBUTTING THE MYTHS - FOREWORD

Rebutting the Myths, produced by my office using the most up-to-date statistical data available, seeks to banish some of the shocking and absurd prejudices which exist about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Passing judgement about a person because of the colour of their skin makes a mockery of the Australian idiom of "a fair go for all".

However, in the 1990s many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to experience discrimination and prejudice on a daily basis. This discrimination impacts dramatically on all aspects of their lives, including education, employment, self esteem and personal happiness.

I reject absolutely the view that Australians are inherently prejudiced. However, many are products of an education system which perpetuated discrimination through policy and textbooks. This will be addressed in schools as Governments give effect to the National Reconciliation and Schooling Strategy.

Tackling prejudice and discrimination in the wider community is a key aspect of the work of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation, which was established in 1991 with the unanimous support of the Federal Parliament.

I urge all who read this booklet to copy it and distribute it freely, to do all that they can to combat prejudice against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and to make their own personal commitment to the process of reconciliation.

Robert Tickner

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs

Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Aboriginal Reconciliation