It is only forty years ago that Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders gained citizenship in their own country.

Sunday 27 May 2007 marks the 40th anniversary of Australia’s most successful referendum and a defining milestone in our nation’s history.

The events leading up to and following this historical referendum are illuminated in a new exhibition, Old Ways, New Ways: the Human Story at Queensland Museum South Bank opening Friday 25 May 2007.

The exhibition features traditional objects from missions, posters, voting cards and personal stories as well as contemporary objects celebrating Indigenous rights.

Sally-Anne Lewis, Director of Queensland Museum South Bank, said the referendum is often referred to as the first stage of the reconciliation movement in Australia.

“The 1967 Referendum saw more than 90% of eligible Australians vote to acknowledge Indigenous Australians as citizens,” she said.

“It also gave the Commonwealth Government power to make laws regarding Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders.

“Since Federation in 1901, our Constitution had denied Indigenous Australians the right to be counted in the Census, and it was State Governments not the Commonwealth that had the exclusive power to make laws concerning them.”

Until 1967, Aboriginal people and Torres Strait Islanders were denied basic human rights. They were unable to marry freely, relocate, earn award wages or own property. They were expected to speak the English language, pay taxes and serve in the armed forces. But they did not officially exist.

“The campaign to change Australia’s Constitution was waged by many people from all backgrounds, beliefs, political affiliations and parts of the country,” Ms Lewis said.

Old Ways, New Ways: the Human Story is on show at Queensland Museum South Bank from 25 May 2007 until. Entry is free.

Free Public Forum
Murri Milestones
Sunday 27 May 2007
9.30am-2pm Queensland Museum South Bank

Film, performance, personal stories, lively discourse and distinguished guests come together to celebrate the anniversary of one of the most important turning points in Australia’s history. Developed in partnership with Griffith University.

Program of events: http://www.southbank.qm.qld.gov.au/calendar/2007/ownw/mm_program.pdf

Media enquiries: Bev Parrish on 3840 7624 or Skye Salleras 3842 9111

Sarah Perrott
Manager - Corporate Communications and Marketing
queensland museum
po box 3300
south brisbane bc
queensland 4101
australia
t 07 3842 9388
f 07 3846 1918
m 0417 741 710
sarah.perrott @ qm.qld.gov.au
http://www.qm.qld.gov.au