Facing Truths, Building Justice

Why We Signed the Treaty Letter

On 17 September 2025, Be Slavery Free joined dozens of civil society organisations in signing an open letter to the Premier and Minister in support of Treaty in Victoria. This moment marks a turning point — not just for First Peoples, but for all of us who believe in justice, truth, and equity.

Our decision to sign this letter is rooted in our Acknowledgement of Country, which states:

“We walk in the knowledge that modern slavery cannot be addressed without facing these truths.”

These truths include the legacy of colonisation: dispossession, forced labour, stolen wages, and stolen childhoods. They are not just historical facts — they are lived realities, etched into Country and carried through generations. At Be Slavery Free, we recognise that the fight against modern slavery must begin with truth-telling and justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

We believe Treaty is a vital step toward a future where First Peoples are empowered to shape their own lives and communities. It’s a step toward dismantling systems of harm and building new ones rooted in respect and partnership.

As an organisation committed to ending exploitation, we know that justice must begin at home.

Read the full letter and list of signatories here: Civil Society Supports Treaty