I’m a first-generation migrant, and our Voice votes are there for the taking

As a first-generation migrant, I believe it is time that migrant communities noticed what’s happening in their backyards, especially during this Indigenous Voice to parliament referendum.

While we may worry about politics and related conundrums in our countries of origin, for first-generation migrants the referendum offers us the opportunity to impact Australia directly and play a constructive role in the political discourse within our adopted home. It’s a chance for us to address the injustices caused by colonisation and support an Indigenous advisory body that will advise the federal government on laws and policies affecting Indigenous communities.

Migrant communities, even the ones who have come here as skilled migrants and professionals, sometimes live here in isolation from the historic roots of Australia. While the referendum and debate on the Yes and No campaigns is gaining momentum throughout Australia, many first-generation migrant communities seem to have taken little notice. It is not on their radar yet.

For many Australians, the referendum is not a priority compared to the challenges of the rising cost of living, lack of housing, unemployment, and other day-to-day issues. For first-generation migrants, there’s another reason for low interest and disengagement in the referendum: they don’t feel they are required to make a contribution, or don’t believe their contributions are new or of value, and therefore don’t contribute. They may also fear saying something “wrong” or facing backlash from the community.

What’s more, some migrants have an expectation that mainstream political parties will invite them to join in the conversation before they can confidently engage. But these parties have generally failed to engage with migrant communities effectively and meaningfully in the past.

All of this can change for the better. Joining the Yes campaign involves understanding the history of First Nations peoples, showing respect, and responding positively to their call as part of the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Migrant communities should recognise the advantages of having a say in important national issues. For migrants to make a difference in Australia, they must be acknowledged for their valuable contributions to society. This includes their skills, intelligence, experiences, and knowledge, which can help create better decisions, policies and programs for all Australians, including migrant communities. It also includes using the power and privilege of voting.

This referendum is a chance for migrants to show their pride as Australians who value humanity and compassion in civic and political affairs in their new country.

As an elected independent councillor playing a role in local politics, I am disappointed by the politicisation of the referendum, which has led to twisted facts, scare campaigns, divisive narratives, and distractions. This situation does not help migrant communities, who now feel even more disconnected and unsure about this debate.

So, here is my message to other first-generation migrants like myself: As non-Aboriginal people, we do not have anything to lose from this constitutional change. It’s about recognising the importance of the First Nations people and their rightful place in the country’s history.

Also, the issue here (contrary to some narratives) is not about promoting one race as superior to others. Instead, it revolves around acknowledging the unique identity and indigeneity of First Nations people.

To be well-informed, ample information about how the Voice advisory body will function is readily available. More details will follow the parliamentary legislative process, where parliament will decide on the Voice model.

It’s also essential to remember that Indigenous communities are not homogenous. Like all communities, including those we find ourselves in, they too are diverse in many ways. While some Indigenous Australians may not support the Voice, the significant portion does, as shown by the 80 per cent Indigenous representation in the Uluru Statement.

To me, wearing all the different community and personal hats, choosing to support the referendum is about being on the right side of history and addressing a moral question that aligns with both heart and mind, leading me to a strong Yes vote.

Seema Abdullah is Australia’s first Pakistani-born Muslim migrant female councillor and the former mayor of Greater Shepparton.

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