Yes23 is hosting ‘Fraser for Yes: Community Forum’ in Sunshine on Thursday, July 27.
One of the speakers on the day will be Yorta Yorta man Ian Hamm, along with Bangerang and Wiradjuri Elder Aunty Geraldine Atkinson and Melbourne Law School professor Kristen Rundle, who specialises in administrative law and legal theory.
Mr Hamm has been formally involved in discussing the Voice for the last six months at different community events throughout Melbourne and internationally.
“I am not formally part of the yes campaign so I have free rein over my speeches at the events,” he said.
“I mostly try to simplify the language surrounding the referendum for people to understand.
“What every voter should ask themselves when they go to vote is: Should Aboriginal people be able to speak?
“… And should I, as a voter allow Aboriginal people to talk about things directly about them.”
In his speeches at varying events Mr Hamm has found that most people find the referendum to be confusing.
“There is so much flying around from the yes and no groups that most people are finding it confusing, so the best thing I can do is try to clear away as much of the noise as possible,” he said.
Mr Hamm said the way the government engages with Aboriginal people needs to improve dramatically.
“Hearing from people who this is about is key, I have understood that for a long time you need to be able to hear what the people you are making rules about think.
“People have been responding really well to the events which is great to hear as I don’t try to sway people’s votes, I only try to make things clearer.”
Jennifer Pittorino
