Over the weekend, we saw protests across the State directed at immigration, and most distressingly, violent attacks occurring in Victoria towards Camp Sovereignty. This is unacceptable and as the State Voice for First Nations people in this State, we wish to respond clearly and firmly.

As the State Voice, we strongly and collectively condemn the violent acts that took place. Camp Sovereignty, established in Victoria, is a place of cultural and political importance. These are an attack on our communities, our people and our collective dignity.

We call for unification at this time. As the Premier, Peter Malinauskas recently stated, First Nations people make up just 2.4% of the population. Everyone else, no matter their background or length of time here, is an immigrant. These truths should bind us together, not divide us.

First Nations communities already carry the burden of racism and exclusion and as a community, we stand firmly against racism, violence, and hate. It has no place here. We value and embrace diversity, respect and dignity for all peoples. It is essential that we continue to honour the values of openness, respect, and unity.

We acknowledge the distress these events have caused our communities. Racism and exclusion are daily burdens our people already carry, and such incidents add further harm.

Our future relies on solidarity, not division. We urge all South Australians, including First Nations, migrants, to come together in respect, compassion, and shared purpose.

We encourage anyone experiencing distress or harm to reach out for support. Services such as 13YARN (13 92 76), Lifeline (13 11 14), Beyond Blue (1300 224 636) and the Black Dog Institute (https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au) are available to provide help and a safe space.

- State Voice