Australia is set to reject a proposal to recognize Indigenous people in the nation’s constitution. The referendum sought to divide the country by enshrining a new advocacy committee called the Voice to Parliament which would advise the government on policy that affected the 3.8 percent of Indigenous residents of Australia.
Early counting indicates that the “no” vote is dominating in most states, including New South Wales and Tasmania. The creation of the indigenous body would require majorities in each of the four remaining states as well as a national majority, leading advocates to concede defeat in the referendum.
Proponents claimed the move would help the impoverished Indigenous, though opponents pointed out the move would simply drive a wedge, and potentially be the first step towards reparations.
