In a stunning blow to reconciliation efforts, Indigenous Australians have lost the landmark referendum to recognize First Peoples in the Australian constitution, as the measure was overwhelmingly rejected. More than 60% of Australians voted “No” to the proposal, which sought to establish an Indigenous advisory body known as the “Voice to Parliament.” This body would have advised the government on matters concerning the Indigenous community. The rejection of this referendum has sparked outrage and disappointment among Indigenous leaders, who have called for a week of silence and reflection to mourn the loss of the vote.

The Indigenous leaders understand “… the bitter irony of the fact that a nation that has only been on this continent for 235 years would refuse to recognize the rights of those who have called this land home for over 60,000 years.” This rejection not only deals a major setback to reconciliation efforts but also tarnishes Australia’s global image in terms of how it treats its First Nations people.

Unlike countries such as Canada and New Zealand, Australia has yet to formally recognize or establish a treaty with its First Peoples. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people, who make up about 4% of the Australian population, have long been the most disadvantaged group in the country, facing significant socioeconomic challenges. The rejection of the referendum has left Indigenous leaders and activists disheartened, knowing that it may take many generations for Australians to overcome their colonial hatred and embrace the existence of the Indigenous community.

The loss of the referendum can be attributed, in part, to the lack of bipartisan support, with leaders of the major conservative parties campaigning for the “No” vote. The Indigenous community has called for Australians to reflect on the role of racism and prejudice in this outcome. While the rejection is undoubtedly a setback, Indigenous leaders and activists remain determined to continue the fight for recognition and equality.