Palm Island Riots
Queensland - 1/12/2004
I’m sure many decent Australians – both indigenous and non-indigenous – would be appalled at the riotous behaviour of a minority on Palm Island. The people who instigated these riots have proven that they have little or no respect for the law – to the point of burning the buildings that actually symbolise it.
Sure – they may have concerns over the death of Cameron Doomadgee. It surprises me that the police did not seek medical assistance for injuries that must have been rather obvious. I support the suggestion of having an independent autopsy – just to be sure. I support a full investigation into what happened to Mr Doomadgee. These are legitimate ways to determine the truth. Rioting and burning down buildings serve no purpose in determining what really happened.
It is an unfortunate truth that this behaviour will only fuel negative attitudes towards indigenous Australians. It is a shame that the actions of a few can have an impact on the perception of the majority. Murrandoo Yanner (or whatever his REAL name is) is not helping their cause one little bit. He is only serving to inflame the perceived "war" between indigenous Australians and the police.
After being arrested and remanded in custody, the rioters’ families are calling for them to be released so that they can attend Mr Doomadgee’s funeral. Perhaps they should have considered the consequences of their actions before they burned down buildings – threatening the lives of those inside.
| Others' Views: Based on 37 votes |
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| Totally agree: | 
(45.9%) |
| Mostly agree: | 
(8.1%) |
| Mostly disagree: |
(8.1%) |
| Totally disagree: |
(37.8%) |