An overwhelming silence in The Barossa Council chamber has spoken volumes, after one Elected Member’s proposal to discontinue the Acknowledgement of Country failed to receive any support.
As reported in the 13 December edition of The Leader, the proposal sought to instruct the Mayor to stop acknowledging our region’s past at meetings and formal events.
Concerned the matter was brought to the media’s attention before Council was given any opportunity for debate, Mayor Bim Lange said he had nothing but praise for the Chamber’s response which “spoke volumes in its silence” at the 19 December meeting.
“Whilst I was disappointed with the proposal in the first place, the 10 Councillors who refused to second the proposed motion, spoke loud and clear,” Mayor Lange said.
We will continue to thank our First Nations and I will lead an inclusive and respectful Chamber on behalf of our community.
Mayor Lange acknowledged all those who took the time to contact Elected Members with their submissions, telephone calls, face to face conversations, emails and Facebook posts, all supporting the simple gesture and mark of respect.
“I also recognise those who have alternative viewpoints, with the main theme regarding the over-use of the Acknowledgement of Country,” Mayor Lange added.
“I take that feedback on board and will ensure it is used appropriately.”
The Barossa Council has always been mindful of using the Acknowledgement sparingly.
“It’s said once each month at Council’s formal meeting and at a few annual and ad-hoc formal events. It’s a 30 second to one minute investment in saying thank you,” Mayor Lange said.
“Well prior to this proposal being placed before Council, I was already working on the wording of a broader acknowledgement, and I used it for the first time at Council last night.
“My new acknowledgement honours all those who have built our Barossa, state, and country.”
Our First Nations people, European heritage, our migrants, current community members and modern society – all of us building the future together.
