IAP Political Forum

February 13th would forever be a day to remember in the history of Australia. It is on this day that Australia (government and parliament as well its Prime Minister) was able to finally apologise for the hurt, pain and suffering it had caused its indigenous people.

As far as symbolism goes, this day is forever, embedded in the minds of those who witnessed the apology and in the history books. Now that we (Australians) are able to move on, what does this mean for Australia? How does this change people's perspective of Australia in the political arena? Is this day only significant for the Aborigines?

I don't think so.  You see, we Americans share similar records of such offenses against Native Americans.  The wounds are deep and take time to heal, but I think that comparing notes with each other from time to time might give us better perspective on how we're dealing with these issues as societies.

One thing I've got to say though.  An apology is nice.  But, "moving on" takes the individual initiative of numerous citizens of both groups.