The following statement has been created in consultation with the club’s Elders in Residence, the club’s Reconciliation Action Plan Committee and Director Ben Wyatt. It has been endorsed by the Board of Directors.
Later this year our nation will face a historic decision on whether to amend our founding document to include the historical connection of our Indigenous family and put their aspirations in our Australian Constitution.
It is the responsibility of every Australian to make an informed decision when the referendum is held.
Like many organisations across Australia, the West Coast Eagles have taken this historic opportunity to have an informed and open discussion. Over the last 12 months we have engaged in a series of specific educational sessions with our Board, Staff and Players.
Our Club has also taken advice from our First Nations Elders-in-Residence and our Reconciliation Action Plan Committee.
The West Coast Eagles supports the First Nations Voice to Parliament being enshrined in the Constitution.
The West Coast Eagles story has been heavily influenced by our great Indigenous players who have represented our Club so passionately both on the field and in the community.
Our community leadership is defined by its Indigenous heritage through the Waalitj Foundation and many other programs across Western Australia.
We encourage members and supporters, indeed, all Australians, to develop a deep understanding of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
Read the Uluru Statement from the Heart
There are many resources discussing different positions on the ‘Voice referendum’, and we truly believe that taking the opportunity to be informed, understand the arguments and make an informed choice is the key to a positive referendum result.
