The Australian Sangha Association Committee and FABC
Support a Yes Vote on the Voice to Parliament

Co-signed 5th October 2023

It is so important that all Australians are equally heard and supported especially on matters and policies that affect anyone’s life. Many born here, but also from foreign lands, have had that benefit of participative democracy for a long time – but it has not been given to all.

My Voice and your Voice should be resoundingly strong in support of a very positive
outcome for the Voice referendum. Indigenous Australians have cared for, nurtured and
protected these lands for millennia with deep thought and kindness to pass on their skills and love to the next generation. And the next generation. We owe a very deep debt of gratitude.

As Buddhists we trust in the metta (lovingkindness) of all Australians to take the right action and strongly support:

• that First Nations people have a direct say over Laws and Policies that affect their Communities.
• That the Voice to Parliament have a robust and participative coherency, with clear two way accountability.
• That there is a clear and supportive integration model of governance that is easy to join and participate within.
• That the Voice to Parliament is carefully designed to enhance and improve democracy – for generations to come.

We support a Yes vote. Make up your own mind. Vote with your heart.