Kevin Rudd made a great connection between the stolen generation and other issues affceting indigenous people such as inadequate housing, lack of health services and unemployment, among many. By coordinating these issues with that of the stolen generation and requesting a ‘war time’ cabinet to address these issues, the Prime Minister has showed a decisive shift from the past.
Aboriginal children were still forcibly removed up until 1969, this is only two years after they were legally recognized as citizens of the country. Interesting to note that John Howard was 30 years of age when the policy was still active.
In my opinion this nation should be ashamed of the condition of which many of its indigenous citizens live, as these conditions are brought about through policy or lack of policy, thus much of the situation is a systematic problem. To fix this problem, it must first be recognized, to move forward an apology is surely warranted. I hope Mr Rudd is strongly supported by the rest of the nation.