National Reconciliation Week is framed by two significant milestones in Australia's legal and constitutional history regarding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Which statement correctly identifies the events and the historical significance of the dates that mark the beginning and end of this week?
- The week begins on the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum, which allowed the Commonwealth to make laws for Indigenous Australians, and ends on the anniversary of the 1992 Mabo Decision, which recognized Native Title by overturning the doctrine of 'terra nullius'.Answer
- BThe week begins with National Sorry Day to commemorate the Stolen Generations and ends on the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum, which was the first time Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples were granted the right to vote in federal elections.
- CThe week begins on the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum regarding the national census and concludes on the anniversary of the 2008 National Apology, which provided the first formal government recognition of the impacts of past policies.
Answer
The correct answer accurately identifies that National Reconciliation Week starts with the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum (May 27) and ends with the anniversary of the 1992 Mabo Decision (June 3).
The correct answer identifies the two essential pillars of National Reconciliation Week: the 1967 Referendum (May 27), which removed discriminatory clauses from the Constitution, and the 1992 Mabo Decision (June 3), where the High Court recognized that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have rights to the land (Native Title).
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
The historical milestones of National Reconciliation Week
Hints
1
Focus on the two dates: May 27 and June 3. What specific legal events happened in 1967 and 1992?
Practice More
Review the specific differences between National Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week, and NAIDOC Week to avoid confusion.
Estimated Time:1m 30s