Beyond reconciliation rhetoric: An exploration of perspectives on the reconciliation process

Abstract

This thesis is looking at the many perspectives that are held by members of our community on the topic of Reconciliation. Views on Reconciliation have been seen thus far in very different lights, some very positive and some not so positive. A better understanding of what Reconciliation means from both Aboriginal and non Aboriginal viewpoints, provides us with a greater knowledge and further understanding of the politics impacting upon Indigenous peoples lives on a daily basis. The thesis looks at the impacts of racism and its role in Reconciliation, it provides us with questions on ownership and motivations of those involved and forces us to look at ideologies to the likes of, One Nation and issues of identity that currently face Australians. The thesis looks at both the positive and negative perspectives on Reconciliation and explores alternatives such as 'treaty', looking at the benefits of such alternatives in comparison with the Reconciliation Process. The thesis looks at the questions of appropriateness of programs being implemented into Indigenous communities and encourages us to question not only the Reconciliation Process but also other strategies and that have been and are currently being implemented upon Indigenous communities that run on parallels to Reconciliation. Thus the thesis attempts to bring about a greater understanding on Reconciliation to the researcher personally, yet it is with the hope and intention that this research brings about clarity to others who are also working towards forming their own understanding of what the Reconciliation process means, in its ideologies, processes and outcomes.