George Williams

Sydney Morning Herald

Separating people according to their race is based upon a discredited 19th-century scientific theory in which a person's race can determine everything from their intelligence to their suitability for certain roles. Unfortunately, this thinking remains embedded in Australia's constitutional DNA.

On Thursday, the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, will receive a report on recognising Aboriginal people in the constitution. It will be delivered by a panel of indigenous, public and business leaders, legal experts and representatives of political parties, who spent the best part of last year canvassing opinion on the issue.

The Prime Minister will be told that the constitution needs to be changed and that this is backed by a majority of Australians.

This is also supported by prominent Aboriginal leaders, including Patrick Dodson, Mick Gooda, Marcia Langton and Noel Pearson, all members of the panel.

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