Eastern Community Legal Centre (ECLC) is proud to acknowledge the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation, Traditional Custodians of the lands where we work to protect human rights, fairness and justice in order to support the wellbeing and resilience of communities and community members. We pay deep respects to their Elders past and present and remember that sovereignty was never ceded.
As a community legal centre operating in Eastern Melbourne, we acknowledge the rich history, culture, and sovereignty of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land. We acknowledge that the laws and systems we work within have too often caused harm to First Peoples. We recognise the strength, resilience, and leadership of First Nations communities, and the urgent need for justice, truth-telling and structural change.
We recognise that when it comes to First Peoples’ communities, cultures and lands, the experts are of course First Peoples. The past can’t be changed, but we can choose to take steps today that will help heal the ongoing pain caused by the injustices of yesterday. We believe a better tomorrow is possible and ECLC pledges our unwavering support for the First Peoples’ Treaty process in Victoria.
ECLC is firmly committed to advancing social justice and equality, and want to play our part in righting the wrongs of the past and creating a better future together. With profound respect for the sovereignty, culture, and rights of First Peoples, we’re pleased to announce that we will walk with the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria on the journey to Treaty.
To help build support for the shared journey to Treaty, ECLC will:
- Support the Treaty process as a vital pathway toward justice, healing, and recognition
- Advocate for the full implementation of Treaty as a means to empower First Nations’ communities and address the harms caused by colonisation
- Continue to listen, learn, and work in respectful partnership with Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations and communities
- Contribute to systemic change through advocacy, law reform, partnership and community education
By making this pledge, we affirm our commitment to the self-determination of First Peoples in Victoria as they assert their rights, tell their truths, and chart a path towards and healing through, Treaty-making. Together, we will create a future where First Peoples’ voices are heard, rights are respected, and justice is realised for generations to come.
- You can also watch ECLC’s new Pledge Video here.
