First Nations Consultations For the Australian Human Rights Commission The National Anti-Racism Framework represents a commitment to acknowledging and addressing the historical and contemporary injustices faced by First Nations peoples. It is a crucial step towards creating a society where all individuals, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential. Through collective effort and sustained action, Australia can move towards a future where racism is no longer a barrier to equity and justice. 1.2 Objectives of the Consultations The consultations conducted by First Nations Co., on behalf of the Australian Human Rights Commission, were designed to engage deeply with First Nations communities across Australia. The primary aim was to gather community perspectives and experiences regarding racism and discrimination. This engagement is crucial for developing a framework that is not only effective but also culturally safe and reflective of the lived experiences of First Nations peoples. The consultations were comprehensive and involved multiple stages, including community consultations, one-on-one interviews, group submissions and focus groups. These methods ensured a wide range of voices were heard, from elders and community members to young people and grassroots activists. The process was designed to be respectful and inclusive, recognising the importance of cultural protocols and the need for a safe space where participants could share their stories without fear of retribution or misunderstanding. The specific objectives of these consultations included: 1. Identifying Key Issues and Concerns: • Understanding the primary concerns related to racism within the education, health, and justice sectors: This involved capturing detailed accounts of personal experiences and systemic barriers that contribute to racial inequity. Participants shared stories of racism in schools, healthcare settings, and interactions with the justice system, highlighting both overt and covert racism. • Documenting systemic barriers: The consultations aimed to identify not just individual instances of racism but also the broader systemic issues that perpetuate inequity. This included examining policies, practices, and institutional cultures that disadvantage First Nations peoples. 2. Gathering Recommendations: • Collecting actionable recommendations for policies and practices: These recommendations were sought to ensure that the National Anti-Racism Framework addresses the specific needs and challenges faced by First Nations communities. Participants were encouraged to propose solutions based on their lived experiences, ensuring that the recommendations were actionable and practical. • Ensuring community-driven solutions: The emphasis was on solutions that are driven by the communities themselves, recognising that those who experience racism are best placed to identify effective strategies to combat it. An Anti-Racism Framework: Voices of First Nations Peoples Page 14