Freedom key for marchers
AN indigenous men’s group for those with physical and mental disabilities, has proudly taken part in NAIDOC celebrations.
Northern Regional Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Corporation Men’s Group supervisor Patrick Sampson, 49, said NAIDOC Week to him means freedom.
“A long time ago, we couldn’t do the things we can do today, simple things such as voting, walking into shops and hotels,” he said.
“It sort of represents a freedom for the whole of indigenous Australia.”
Mr Sampson said the NAIDOC march was a show of pride and strength for the indigenous community.
“It was quite a big number, I’m happy with the march … the gods answered our prayers and the sun came out. We thought it was going to rain,” he said.
Born on Thursday Island, Mr Sampson arrived in Townsville in 1976 for schooling.
“I’ve been here ever since, I’ve worked in all the communities, Cleveland Youth Detention Centre, city council, Queensland Police, medical centres,” he said.
Mr Sampson said his current job was one of the most rewarding he’s ever had.
“We take the men’s group out of their four walls and take them out on social outings, picnics, some things out of town, museums, movies, fishing, anything they want to do,” he said.
“It’s very rewarding, to see and help people that can’t do day-to-day things other people can do.”
Support worker Patrick Neliman, 45, said it was great to see so much support for NAIDOC Week, especially from those who were non-indigenous.