The Save Public Housing Collective condemns the destruction of sacred Djab Wurrung trees by the Victorian Government this week. We stand in solidarity with Djab Wurrung people and all First Nations peoples struggling for justice on and for their lands and waters.
We call on the Victorian Government to:
Immediately withdraw police, private security and demolition crews from the site
Cease all plans for removal or further desecration of all of the trees and places about which Djab Wurrung Heritage Protection Embassy spokespeople have identified to you as significant;
Recognise the destruction and harm you have caused and apologise;
Urgently engage in good faith negotiations with the Djab Wurrung Heritage Protection Embassy about how to repair the damage and find a way forward that protects Djab Wurrung heritage and is a respectful process
We acknowledge the harm that colonisation continues to wreak on First Nations peoples and commit to working in solidarity and in responsible relationship with Indigenous sovereignty. The Save Public Housing Collective pays respects to Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung / Bunurong peoples of the Kulin nation on whose lands we live, work and campaign.