8/10/2020
Rangi Hirini is right to try and dispel this myth that has been created over the last 200+ years that, somehow the Aboriginal people (the First Nations people of this country) receive perks and benefits that no one else receives. Most of us know this to be a complete untruth and we must all do our bit to ensure that the truth be told.
The intergenerational trauma that the First Nations People have suffered is well documented. The need for specifically targeted services is also well documented. However, based on Rangi’s data and my own experience in this area, it appears that Governments seem to be unable to grasp this simple concept.
It is extraordinary that this State Government would much rather fund a mainstream agency to deliver culturally appropriate services. They continue to do this even today.
An outcome of this was demonstrated by a colleague who contacted a mainstream and very well-funded mental health agency and spoke to them in his language. He informed them that he was contemplating suicide. Their response was staggering in its offhandedness. There was no attempt to ascertain the language he was speaking in. They simply dismissed his plea by saying “You’ve got the wrong number, mate”
What was even more staggering is that this exchange happened on “R U Ok” day – a day when we attempt to address the mental health issues so many of us deal with.
The sooner Governments understand the need for specifically targeted services the better off all of us as a community will be.
Suresh Rajan
President Ethnic Communities Council WA