dentsu today released a guide for businesses on how to best support the upcoming referendum to recognise First Nations people and create The Voice to Parliament in the Australian constitution.
Created in collaboration with First Nations social change and communications agency Cox Inall Ridgeway, the guide is designed to help business leaders understand what the referendum is about, what a voice to parliament means, the aspirations of First Nations people, and the practical steps they can take to show their advocacy and support for the Yes campaign.
Patricio De Matteis, dentsu ANZ chief executive officer, said: “This year will be a landmark year for Australia. Everyone – from customers, stakeholders, to employees – will be looking to see Australia’s business community take a stance on The Voice Referendum once a date has been announced.
“Some people might be asking why a multinational advertising company is supporting a political movement. The answer is simple: to do nothing is a political act in itself. In our view, this is a once in a generation opportunity for change and corporate Australia must think about the hangover they will feel if the referendum is lost. That is a whole generation of effort lost.
“Over the last six months, we have been talking to our people about the Uluru Statement from the Heart but changing the Australian constitution is not easy. Over the coming months we will be creating the opportunities for our people, our clients, and the broader industry to learn about why this is an important moment, and why this is an Australian issue – not an Indigenous issue.
“Clients are already reaching out to us looking for counsel on what they should be doing. We have developed this guide as a blueprint to help businesses know what steps they can take as a starting point, and how they can navigate this pivotal moment. I look forward to continuing these conversations over the coming months so we can work together to right historic wrongs,”
Yatu Widders Hunt, Cox Inall Ridgeway general manager, said: “The referendum is a pivotal moment in not just First Nations history but the history of Australia.
“Australia’s businesses have an opportunity to show real leadership on this important issue. We have already been working with some of Australia’s largest brands on their reconciliation journey over the last few years. We’re now proud to be providing such a practical resource to help all businesses understand the significance of the referendum and to know what steps they can take to walk with First Nations people into a more inclusive Australia,” said Widders-Hunt.
The guide covers background information on the Uluru Statement from the Heart, The Voice and the referendum, as well as key moments in Australia’s history. It also provides information on how corporations can show support for the yes campaign, from understanding employee sentiment through to campaigning in public.
