Pat Dodson, a prominent Yawuru Elder and former Labor senator, continues to express optimism for reconciliation efforts between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, particularly in the wake of the recent referendum on the First Nations Voice to Parliament, which did not pass.

A recognized figure in reconciliation initiatives, Dodson previously served as the inaugural chair of the Reconciliation Council in the 1990s.

Speaking prior to National Reconciliation Week, Dodson highlighted that the reconciliation process extends beyond the parameters of a referendum.

'We've got to start treating the First Peoples as the unique peoples that they are, the sovereign peoples that they are,' he stated in an interview, stressing the need for a shift in how Indigenous communities are perceived and treated in Australia.

Dodson, often referred to as 'the father of reconciliation,' indicated that under a renewed federal Labor Government, there exists a significant opportunity to pursue the three core principles outlined in the Uluru Statement: Voice, Treaty, and Truth-telling.

He remarked that it is essential for citizens to engage with politicians to ensure that commitments made regarding Indigenous rights and recognition are honored.

He cited historical moments of commitment to reconciliation, including remarks made by past Prime Minister Ben Chifley about maintaining a 'light on the hill' in the face of adversity.

Dodson emphasized that the Federal Government should initiate the establishment of a Makarrata Commission, aimed at furthering truth-telling, treaty discussions, and reconciliation efforts in collaboration with Indigenous Australians.

Key reports and agreements, such as the Langton-Calma report, the United Nations Declaration of Indigenous Peoples' Rights, and the Closing the Gap initiative, were flagged by Dodson as vital areas requiring focused attention to advance Indigenous rights and improve social outcomes.

Indigenous Australians Minister Malarndirri McCarthy acknowledged Dodson's longstanding commitment to truth-telling and justice, referencing his previous service as a Commissioner for the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody.

'Pat is a former colleague and dear friend, and I have always listened to what he has to say, as I do with other First Nations leaders,' McCarthy stated.

Thomas Mayo, an advocate for the Voice initiative, echoed Dodson's sentiments regarding the Labor Party's responsibilities.

He pointed out that support for the Uluru Statement is a Labor policy, and reiterated his belief that a significant portion of the Australian public would favor the establishment of a Makarrata Commission and dedicated efforts towards truth-telling.

Dodson urged Labor to leverage the momentum gained from the recent federal election, calling on the government to send a clear message about their commitment to the principles of reconciliation.

'We want to see unity in this country, we want to see national pride restored, and we want to see hatred taken out of our interactions with people of different races and cultures as Australians,' he said.

He posited that responsibility for moving forward lies not only with politicians but also with the public, who must actively ensure that the government honors past promises and addresses ongoing issues related to Indigenous rights and reconciliation.

'We, the public, can't allow the Government to just walk away and forget the promises that they've made in the past and the need for this nation still to deal with the unfinished business,' Dodson concluded.