Since the arrival of the first fleet, through to 1945, Australia has made important progress in improving Indigenous freedoms and rights. This progress has been marked by protest movements like the freedom rides, policy changes such as the 1967 referendum, and legal victories such as the 1992 Mabo case. However, there are still significant challenges, including socio-economic disparities and struggles for land rights, that still prevent equality today in Australia. Australia has significantly improved Indigenous rights and freedoms from the first fleet to 1945. A way their rights were recognised and respected was through the 1965 Freedom Rides. The 1965 Freedom Rides in Australia, inspired by the US civil rights movement, spotlighted racial segregation in regional New South Wales. Led by Indigenous and non-Indigenous activists like Charles Perkins, the rides aimed to challenge discriminatory practices in education and housing. They targeted schools refusing Indigenous enrollment and exposed overcrowded, dilapidated housing conditions. Through protests and media coverage, they raised awareness of systemic injustices. For instance, in some areas, Indigenous children comprised less than 1% of school enrollment. Recognition of indigenous peoples increased as a result of the freedom ride protests, …show more content…
Before this vote, Indigenous Australians were excluded from the national census, denying them recognition as citizens. The campaign for the referendum gained momentum across the nation. On May 27, 1967, the referendum saw an overwhelming majority, with over 90% of Australians voting "yes" to include Indigenous people in the census and to grant the federal government power to legislate for them. This reflected a collective desire for justice and equality. The legacy of the 1967 Referendum serves as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards reconciliation and genuine equality for all