Feb 11 • 11:30 UTC 🇬🇧 UK Guardian

Albanese to address ‘shock and fear’ over alleged Invasion Day terror attack in annual Closing the Gap speech

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will address the anxiety among First Nations people regarding an alleged terrorist attack during an Invasion Day rally in Perth in his annual Closing the Gap speech.

In a significant address, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will confront the deep 'shock and fear' experienced by First Nations communities following an alleged terrorist attack that occurred during an Invasion Day rally in Perth. The incident involved a man throwing a homemade bomb at a gathering of over 2,500 attendees at Forest Place in the city’s central business district. Fortunately, the device did not explode, but its mere presence has sparked considerable concern around safety and the motivations behind such violence, which authorities have linked to racism and white supremacy.

Albanese's speech, scheduled for Thursday to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the apology to the Stolen Generations, is expected to tackle these underlying issues head-on. By acknowledging the racially charged nature of the attack, the Prime Minister intends to reaffirm his government's commitment to addressing systemic racism and ensuring that First Nations voices are heard and respected in national dialogues. He aims to raise awareness of the challenges faced by Aboriginal communities in Australia, enhancing discussions around reconciliation and justice.

The implications of this address extend beyond the immediate context of the attack, as it reflects ongoing societal tensions and the urgent need for effective advocacy on behalf of marginalized groups. By bringing these issues to the forefront, Albanese not only seeks to strengthen his administration's stance on equality but also aims to pave the way for more comprehensive policies to combat racial violence and support healing for First Nations people in Australia.

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