Fed: ATSIC calls for peaceful Olympic protests

AAP General News (Australia)
08-17-2000
Fed: ATSIC calls for peaceful Olympic protests

The nation's peak indigenous body has urged Aboriginal people to seize the Olympic
moment and organise peaceful protests while the world's eyes are on Sydney.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission chairman GEOFF CLARK has issued a
statement saying the ATSIC board wishes all Australian athletes the very best for the
September Games.

It's also urged all Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders to seize the Olympic moment.

Mr CLARK'S statement says the board believes the Games will provide an invaluable opportunity
to lay the facts before the international and domestic media about the conditions suffered
by Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islanders.

He says ATSIC itself will highlight indigenous grievances during the Games.

Earlier this year, Aboriginal activist and ATSIC member CHARLES PERKINS sparked controversy
when he predicted violent demonstrations and burning in the streets during the Games.

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KEYWORD: OLY ATSIC (CANBERRA)

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