Catholic Social Services Victoria representatives joined more than 5000 people on Wednesday on the final leg of the 500km Walk for Truth from Portland to Melbourne’s Parliament House.
“The silence ends here. The time of not knowing – of choosing not to know – is over.” These words from Yoorook Justice Commission deputy chair Travis Lovett marked a defining moment at the conclusion of the historic 25-day walk.
The walk was held to coincide with the close of the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s four-year inquiry – the first formal, truth-telling process into the historical and ongoing injustices experienced by First Peoples in Victoria.
It provided a public opportunity for all Victorians to engage with the truth-telling process, show support for the commission’s work, and call for the full implementation of its forthcoming recommendations.
Catholic Social Services Victoria was represented at the walk by staff, members and colleagues who joined the final leg to show support and solidarity.
Their participation reflected CSSV’s broader commitment to reconciliation, justice, and truth-telling – principles that align closely with Catholic Social Teaching.
“We believe that a close look at the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s final report recommendations will be an important part of a just and compassionate future for Victoria.” CSSV executive director Joshua Lourensz said.
“Truth-telling is fundamental to reconciliation and justice broadly, and links well with what has been said by leadership at the national level – the Plenary Council decrees, the Australian Bishops’ social justice statements, and NATSICC’s endorsement of the Uluru Statement from the Heart,” Mr Lourensz said.
Sr Joan Healy RSJ, who also took part in the walk, described it as a meaningful public step.
“This is such an important moment in Australia’s history. Victoria has always insisted that truth must come first, because so many people still don’t understand the real history of this place,” Sr Healy said.
“The stories gathered – now held in the state’s archives – are a treasure and have come just in time. Events like this show that many people care deeply. We’re not just saying it – we’re showing it in symbol, and it won’t go away.”
The Yoorrook Justice Commission has delivered its two final reports. The Allan Government is expected to table these reports in the Victorian Parliament in the coming month.
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Walking Together for Truth A Shared Step Towards Justice and Healing in Victoria (CSSV)
