The commission is the first truth-telling process relating to First Peoples in Australia and will establish an official record of the impact of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Victoria.
“If you have a story to share or documents that could help shed light on early interactions between First Peoples and settlers, or about the impacts of colonisation on Aboriginal people, please make a submission,” Yoorrook Justice Commission chair Eleanor Bourke said.
“Yoorrook has heard powerful evidence from First Peoples about the systemic racism, injustice and harm caused by the state against them and their families. Often this involved reliving traumatic experiences and came at a significant personal toll.
“Now it is time for all Victorians to play their part in the truth-telling process; truth-telling must be a two-way street.”
Professor Bourke said submissions could include stories of interactions with First Peoples when Victoria was first settled, including relationships between Indigenous people and settlers, knowledge of early stories and beliefs, or information about the impact of colonisation on the Traditional Owners in the area.
She said material could be submitted by individuals, families or groups and might comprise documents from a workplace, farm, church or family archive, information taught in school about First Peoples’ history, culture and experiences, or knowledge and evidence of massacre sites.
“You might have information that helps show the strength of First Peoples or the importance of culture, knowledge and tradition,” Prof Bourke said.
“If you choose, your story can be part of Yoorrook’s rich public archive, which is based on the principles of truth, understanding and transformation. The archive will live on for future generations to explore.
“Coming together to acknowledge past injustice and resolve our differences is an important part of the healing process. Only then can we begin to create a better future for all Victorians.”
