CANBERRA — The Aboriginal tent embassy has issued an invitation for the "great gathering of the elders" — a corroboree for sovereignty — to mark the 26th anniversary of the embassy and survival day, January 26, 1998.
The embassy is inviting Aboriginal elders and all people in Australia to gather at the embassy opposite Old Parliament House for a week's camp to "hear their speaking and teaching, their sovereign and spiritual guidance and to hold forums and views from all the Aboriginal peoples".
The event, organised by the Friends of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, is intended to facilitate healing, the strengthening and renewal of traditional culture, the education of the young in Aboriginal law, and the building of understanding between black and white regarding the deep spiritual relationship between Aboriginal people and the land.
In a special appeal to environmentalists, the Friends of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy note that the continent has been cut by irrational self-interests, without care for the delicate associations between river systems, mountains, deserts and plains. "[The land's] creatures and plants are massively dying, her atmospheres toxic and fevered, and all her people are ill in spirit, addicted to empty hungers, their children and elders neglected."
The embassy was set up as a permanent mark of protest against the annexation of Aboriginal lands, the injuries and losses suffered by the Aboriginal people, and as a statement for self-determination and sovereignty for Aboriginal people. The resident "ambassadors" also provide hospitality, advice, contacts with the local Aboriginal community and patient education to a constant stream of local and international visitors.
A group of dedicated people are working toward the gathering without financial backing. The embassy and it's supporters are appealing for support in the form of hands-on assistance and resources. To contact the Friends of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy, phone (02) 6248 5016, fax (02) 6257 6638, email