Ballarat’s Wadawurrung Country recently set the stage for a momentous occasion as Treaty Day Out unfolded, drawing a sold-out crowd of 3,500 eager attendees to revel in the richness of Indigenous culture and music. Against the backdrop of Treaty negotiations between the Assembly and the Victorian Government later this year, this festival serves as both a celebration of Indigenous heritage and a rallying cry for progress towards Treaty. Treaty Day Out: Celebrating Culture, Music, and Progress
A Musical Extravaganza with a Purpose
Headlined by the incomparable Jessica Mauboy, Treaty Day Out showcased some of Australia’s finest Indigenous talent, including Electric Fields and 3%, alongside a lineup of other captivating acts. Beyond delivering stellar performances, the festival serves a dual purpose: raising awareness for the Treaty journey and fostering support for Indigenous rights and self-determination.
Voices from the Crowd
Patrons who descended upon Wadawurrung Country for the day expressed their enthusiasm for the musical acts and their eagerness to learn more about Treaty. For many, the event provided a platform to engage with Indigenous culture while enjoying sensational music. Some attendees reflected on the impact of the failed referendum from the previous year, prompting a reevaluation of their perspectives on Treaty and its significance for Indigenous communities.
Empowering Indigenous Voices
Canisha, whose performance resonated deeply with the afternoon crowd, emphasized the importance of Indigenous participation in the Treaty process, echoing the sentiment of “Nothing about us, without us.” Her impassioned plea for engagement underscores the need for widespread awareness and support for Treaty negotiations, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard and respected in decisions that directly affect their lives.
Looking Ahead
As Treaty Day Out draws to a close, anticipation lingers for what the future holds. With calls for more acts and greater engagement, it’s evident that the festival has struck a chord within the community, sparking conversations and fostering connections. With the support of the First Peoples’ Assembly and initiatives like Treaty Day Out, the journey towards Treaty takes another step forward, buoyed by the collective spirit of celebration, advocacy, and cultural pride.
Acknowledgments
National Indigenous Times extends its gratitude to the First Peoples’ Assembly for facilitating access throughout the event, allowing attendees to immerse themselves fully in the cultural vibrancy and significance of Treaty Day Out.
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Source: https://nit.com.au/08-03-2024/10167/thousands-rock-treaty-day-out
