In hope and solidarity – right now we have an opportunity to fight for real and lasting change

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have for generations been fearlessly fighting for an end to police violence, discriminatory laws and racial inequality. In this moment – spurred by the surging protests in the US and the ongoing advocacy of First Nations People – we all have an opportunity to push for change.

The Human Rights Law Centre is united in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations who have long been fighting for an end to police brutality and mass imprisonment, and accountability for deaths in custody.

We urge you to amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and to also make a donation to Aboriginal-led organisations like NATSILS, and Change the Record, an Aboriginal-led coalition, who, day in and day out, lead the charge on ending deaths in custody and dismantling racist legal systems.

In Australia, 432 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have died in custody since the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal deaths in custody. Not a single person has ever been held criminally responsible for this violence. Not a single government in Australia has taken responsibility and implemented all of the Royal Commission's recommendations, made almost 30 years ago, or the numerous expert report recommendations that have been made since.

Right now, we have the opportunity to fight for real and lasting change. The actions we take today have the power to reshape the world of tomorrow.

In unity,

The Human Rights Law Centre team