Territory alcohol and pornography signs must come down
The AMA supports the Central Land Council’s calls for the removal of demeaning signs that detail alcohol and pornography bans in Northern Territory communities.
The signs were erected as part of the Northern Territory intervention, and the Federal Government has determined the signs are no longer compulsory – but many of the signs are still in place.
AMA President, Dr Andrew Pesce, and Vice President, Dr Steve Hambleton, visited the Territory last year and were given the very strong message from Aboriginal community leaders that the signs had to come down.
“We were told by the local people that these signs are neither necessary nor constructive,” Dr Hambleton said.
“They stigmatise everybody in the community, and it isn’t hard to see why – the signs are big and obvious and unambiguous.
“There is no evidence in the expert literature or from experience that signs like these are effective in reducing problematic alcohol use or harms among Aboriginal peoples.
“There is no evidence that these signs are more effective in any way than other harm reduction measures of a similar or lesser cost.
“There is plenty of evidence, however, that these signs have caused a lot of embarrassment and insult to many Aboriginal people in the Territory.
“Pride, self respect, and emotional and social wellbeing are important factors in good health for Aboriginal peoples, but these signs undermine and attack these core determinants of good health.
“The signs must come down immediately.
“The AMA urges the Federal and Territory Governments and their agencies to fast track the removal of these signs and restore dignity to these people and their communities,” Dr Hambleton said.
6 May 2011
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761
Geraldine Kurukchi 02 6270 5467 / 0427 209 753
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