BaptistCare’s Uncle Charles invited to be part of historic Bill signing

BaptistCare congratulates Uncle Charles Jackson OAM on his recent involvement in a moment of historic importance: the signing of the bill recognising the First Nations Voice to the South Australian Parliament.

Uncle Charles is a valued part of BaptistCare’s Family and Community Services team and works as an NDIA Local Area Coordinator in South Australia’s Yorke Mid-North region.

Uncle Charles was one of a select group of Aboriginal community members invited to walk with the Speaker of the House, Terry Stephens, as he delivered the Bill to the Governor, and to witness the signing of the Bill.

This invitation acknowledges Uncle Charles’ dedication and commitment to the development and progression of this Bill.

“The day brought lots of emotion for me personally,” Uncle Charles said.

“There were five or six thousand people gathered there to celebrate ‘The History in the Making’.

“This milestone in our state has laid the foundation for the rest of the states and federal governments to do likewise. The passing of the Bill will give First Nations people the capability to advocate, negotiate and influence the policies that have direct responsibility for service delivery.

“At present, there are no mechanisms within the government framework to involve Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander people. What we have now is a legislative document which stipulates how the government process will work when dealing with matters that concern First Nations people.”

BaptistCare is proud and grateful to have a person of such stature working with us. Congratulations Uncle Charles!