The Tasmanian Aboriginal community stands united in support of 82-year-old Aboriginal elder Uncle Jim Everett, who was arrested this morning while bravely defending our ancient Aboriginal lands from the ongoing threat of native forest logging.
In a powerful statement, Uncle Jim expressed his frustration, saying, “Enough is enough. The destruction of our ancient native forests is not merely an environmental issue; it is an attack on our law and our connection to country. This law, which has been upheld by our people for millennia, is pre-eminent to the colonial system imposed by Britain’s alien sovereignty. Until a genuine agreement is reached between the government and First Nations people, what is referred to as Australia will continue to be nothing more than a colony.”
Nala Mansell, Campaign Coordinator for the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre, echoed Uncle Jim’s sentiments, emphasizing the profound obligation Tasmanian Aborigines have to protect and care for our lands. She stated, “It is a complete injustice that an 82-year-old Aboriginal man is arrested for defending his sacred lands and is charged with trespassing on his own territory. This incident starkly highlights the failures of a legal system that does not recognize the inherent rights and responsibilities of our people. “We demand that any charges against Uncle Jim be dropped and our right to defend country is recognised’’.
We demand recognition of our rights and a commitment to preserving our sacred lands for future generations. Our struggle is not just about protecting our environment; it is about reclaiming our identity, culture, and place in this land we have cared for since time immemorial.
In solidarity, we stand with Uncle Jim Everett and his fight for justice and recognition of our ancestral rights.
Nala Mansell
Campaign Coordinator
