Indigenous Australians Seek Silence and Unity After Voice Referendum Defeat

Indigenous leaders in Australia are calling for a week of silence following the failure of a referendum to recognize Indigenous people in the constitution. The measure, which aimed to enshrine an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, was rejected by every state and mainland territory except the Australian Capital Territory. Despite opposition from over 60 percent of voters, the proposal was more popular among Indigenous Australians. Supporters of the referendum expressed their disappointment by flying Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island flags at half-staff. Indigenous leaders criticized the rejection, stating that it is unreasonable for those who have been in Australia for only 235 years to refuse recognition to those who have called the land home for over 60,000 years. The government has pledged to explore alternative ways of improving the lives of Indigenous people.