Indigenous editor’s note:
This year hasn’t been a great year for Indigenous Affairs, with over $500 million worth of cuts to its budget.
That’s why, in a year like this one, it is especially important for the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to be heard.
This issue covers a lot of heavy and important topics, such as deaths in custody, increasing incarceration rates, cultural history, the referendum, cuts to education and racism.
These issues have a direct impact on the lives of Indigenous people, and we thank the Tharunka team for helping our voices to be heard.
I am sure this is the start of a beautiful partnership between Tharunka and the Indigenous students of UNSW – a legacy to be continued for years to come.
I hope you enjoy.
Rebekah Hatfield
Indigenous Student Officer, UNSW SRC
Intercultural editor’s note:
2014 is a year of national achievement. Australia has weathered attempts to water down the seldom-applied Racial Discrimination Act. Simultaneously, the Australian government has soldiered on amidst the persistent international condemnation of its 143 human rights violations of persons seeking asylum. It would appear that the old adage of “you win some, you lose some” could definitely apply to the current cultural climate of the fair nation that our bountiful university is situated upon.
However, it’s not all doom, gloom and marginal gains! It is with great pleasure that Bek and I write to you in this very first edition of our student newspaper which is to be comprised – in its entirety – by students of culturally diverse backgrounds. The provision of such an outlet allows us to continually challenge, explore and celebrate the cross-cultural similarities and uniquities that define us as individuals, and as members of the broader UNSW community.
As one of our contributors exclaimed, “It would mean so much to be published!” – and on behalf of the Intercultural Collective, I’d like to express to those who have picked up this issue, that it means so much that you’re taking the time to read and actively listen to us.
Much love,
Rachel Lobo
2014 SRC Ethno-cultural Officer