MPs 'Welcomed to Country' (Australia)

[Matilda]

Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation

"A traditional welcome to country by Indigenous elders has been held in federal Parliament for the first time, ahead of tomorrow's formal apology to the Stolen Generations.

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has been handed a message stick to commemorate the occasion.

Ngambri elder Matilda House Williams says the 'Welcome to Country' acknowledges her people and their ancestors.

"It's a good, honest and decent and very human act to reach out to make sure everyone has a place and is welcome," she said."



Read more: http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2008/02/12/2160117.htm

---

After cringing for years in the face of John Howard's refusal to apologise in any way to the Indigenous
people for the wrongs committed by past generations, it's a good feeling to witness this acknowledgment
of the original inhabitants. We can all feel a little bit more proud today.

[Bear down under]

1. Hear Hear!

I have never felt more proud of my country than today.

The ceremony, Matilda-House Williams' beautiful speech of welcome and the Prime Minister's response can be seen here: http://www.abc.net.au/news/video/