Activists showing disrespect: elders
GOLD Coast Aboriginal elders say visiting protesters have gone against their wishes by causing the cancellation of a leg of the Queen’s Baton Relay while on their land.
Yugambeh elder Ted Williams, who sits on the Commonwealth Games’ Yugambeh Elders Advisory Group and indigenous Workers Group, said the baton relay roadblock at The Spit yesterday was disrespectful to elders who had granted permission for the activists to protest on Yugambeh land.
“That is disrespecting the elders because the elders specifically asked them to act respectfully and peacefully while on our land,” Mr Williams said. “If they did that (block the baton relay), then in my view they have been disrespectful to us.”
More than 50 protesters formed a human chain across SeaWorld Drive after 12.30pm to block the baton completing its journey to the end of The Spit.
Baton bearers and officials were forced to stop while police negotiated with the protesters.
After no progress was made the baton team decided to cancel the leg at the end of The Spit and use an amended route on SeaWorld Dive.
Three protesters were last night arrested after clashes with police outside Carrara Stadium before the opening ceremony.
Half a dozen indigenous protesters tried to storm the gates to the ceremony about 7.30pm. The group was pushed back by police while shouting “no justice, no Games”.
Then the scene turned ugly with a number of protesters lashing out a police.
Some protesters said “don’t shoot, don’t shoot” as they struggled with police who tried to subdue them.
The Stolenwealth Games Protest is being organised by a national committee that includes members of the Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance (WAR) and the Brisbane Aboriginal-Sovereign Embassy. Protesters have travelled from across the country to take part.
The group, which is protesting a range of issues including native title rights and the abolishment of Australia Day, continued their protests during last night’s opening ceremony.
Mr Williams said Yugambeh elders met with the protesters before the Games to ensure they follow Yugambeh law.
“We have had words with them and we have told them we support their right to protest and we support many of the things they protest about,” Mr Williams said.
“However, if they wish to cause problems, cause disruptions and disrespect the elders after we have asked them to be peaceful and respectful, then of course we are not going to be happy.”
Mr Williams said he would consider the opinion of his fellow Yugambeh elders if the protesters continued to disrupt the running of the Games.
“If they continue to disrespect, then we shall continue to tell them they are being very disrespectful,” he said.
“I wouldn’t (ask them to leave), but I would certainly ask the opinion of the other elders.
“We hope it doesn’t reach that stage.”