SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
As many of you know, CDT promotes the United Nations SDGs:
We believe these goals are the most relevant to the work we do as we shift manufacturing and design processes from linear models to circularity.
However, it is important to discuss SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. We might have viewed this goal as external to a country like Australia, perceiving it to be about developing nations that produce the products and materials we import. Unfortunately, the inequality among our First Nation's people here at home is quite shocking.
As Australians, we often speak of being a multicultural society, but the reality is different. The life expectancy of Indigenous males is 8.6 years less than that of non-Indigenous males, and similar statistics exist for females, with Indigenous women living 7.8 years less than non-Indigenous females. But it's not just about life expectancy; the employment rate for Indigenous Australians stands at 52%, compared to 75% for non-Indigenous Australians. Similar disparities exist in access to education and housing. Why is this so when we claim to be inclusive and welcoming to all nations?
There are many arguments for and against recognising the Indigenous Peoples in the Australian Constitution. Some are concerned about their rights being disputed. However, we believe this is fear-based. The "yes" vote is about recognizing our First Peoples and their invaluable culture and heritage. It's about listening to their views when making policies or discussing challenges that affect them. Moreover, over 80% of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community supports #yes23.
"An Indigenous Voice to Parliament is consistent with the guiding principles of key human rights treaties, including the rights to self-determination. Given that the proposals outlined in the Uluru Statement from the Heart were determined through an unprecedented First Nations-led, bottom-up process, they can be seen as an expression of self-determination by First Nations Australians." – United Nations Children’s Fund
Many may believe that CDT should not comment on such a political topic, but from our perspective, it's about healing a divided country. Our values and mission for a healthier and more prosperous planet are inclusive of all. We do not know the outcome of the referendum, but we do hope that Australians unite in our diversity, where we all have a voice and reduce the inequalities Indigenous Peoples of Australia have endured for 235 years.
If you don’t know how to vote, then get informed—don't be complacent. Research, read, ask questions and learn.
Image Credit: Yes23 Campaign
