A Call for Action: Protecting First Nations Communities
The recent alleged attack at the Boorloo Invasion Day rally has sparked a powerful movement among First Nations leaders across Australia. They are united in their demand for a stronger response from political leaders and law enforcement, following what could have been a devastating incident.
WA Police claim a homemade bomb was thrown into a crowd of 2,500 peaceful protesters, describing it as a potential catastrophe. Noongar elder Uncle Herbert Bropho, who was addressing the rally at the time, emphasized the potential severity of the situation, stating, "If it had detonated, there would have been many casualties." The device landed in an area where women and children were standing, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attack.
A 31-year-old man has been charged with intent to harm and possession of explosives, but the motive remains unclear. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has described the incident as "quite shocking," calling for the full force of the law to be applied. However, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Katie Kiss questions the government's response, noting a "stark difference" compared to other attacks.
"It sends a message that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are not valued," she said. While the motive is unknown, the circumstances have caused fear and concern within First Nations communities, especially given the rise in racism following the 2023 Voice referendum and the attack on Camp Sovereignty last year.
Independent senator Lidia Thorpe calls for a comprehensive inquiry, questioning the possible failures of policing and intelligence. She highlights the known threat to Invasion Day rallies, asking, "Why and how did this happen?" Thorpe believes the government's lack of a strong statement is a glaring double standard, implying that the lives of First Nations people are not prioritized.
Amnesty International has urged WA Police to investigate the incident as a possible hate crime. Kacey Teerman, Amnesty's Indigenous Rights campaigner, emphasized that the rally was a peaceful protest, and an attack on such an event is an attack on First Nations people and their rights to live free from violence and discrimination.
The Minister for Indigenous Australians, Malarndirri McCarthy, condemned the attack, stating, "There is no place for hate or intimidation in Australia. First Nations Australians should be able to gather without fear." Shadow Minister Kerrynne Liddle echoed these sentiments, calling for legislation to stamp out hate and extremism.
Community members have taken to social media to show their support and raise awareness. Eddie Synot, a Wemba-Wemba lecturer, highlighted the exceptional racism and hatred directed towards Aboriginal people, stating that their treatment is always excused. Dunghutti man Paul Silva emphasized the need for hate speech laws to protect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The question remains: Why hasn't this incident been declared a terrorist act? Lidia Thorpe and Katie Kiss, among others, are seeking answers. Gundungurra man Jakob James asks, "If this happened at any other event, we'd call it terrorism."
Western Australia's Police Commissioner Col Blanch stated that the case is being investigated with assistance from federal agencies. He explained the criteria for an act of terrorism, which includes political, religious, or ideological motivations. At this stage, it is considered a hostile act, and police are working to determine if terrorism charges can be proven.
Associate Professor Hannah McGlade from Curtin Law School emphasized the community's fears, stating, "We are scared for our children. This was an attack on Aboriginal people, and we must recognize the gravity of this situation."
Noongar elder Uncle Herbert Bropho encourages First Nations people to remain strong and proud, continuing the fight for their rights and safety.
This incident has sparked a crucial conversation about the protection of First Nations communities and the need for a unified response to address the rising threats they face.
