1 Introduction and Overview

This section first outlines the background, purpose, and outcome of the Australian "Indigenous Voice" referendum held on October 14, 2023. It notes that the referendum aimed to constitutionally establish an "Indigenous Voice" to recognize the status of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but ultimately failed due to various factors. Subsequently, the literature review explores the manifestations and underlying causes of racism observed during the referendum, pointing out that early research predominantly focused on the oppression of non-white races, while recent studies have begun to address white privilege and ideological constructs, emphasizing the process of "normalization" of racism. Finally, the methodology and arguments section explains that this paper employs discourse analysis to examine expressions of racism in media coverage, proposing that racism was a key reason for the referendum's failure, emphasizing Indigenous culture as an entry point for achieving reconciliation, and calling for joint efforts from both sides.

2 Racism in the "Indigenous Voice" Referendum—Manifestations and Causes

During the 2023 Australian "Indigenous Voice" referendum, the racist tendencies exhibited by non-Indigenous groups were primarily manifested through three forms: indifference, deliberate neglect, and cultural blame. Indifference was reflected in the lack of interest and willingness among non-Indigenous people to engage with Indigenous issues. Survey data indicated that less than one-third of Australian citizens were highly concerned about Indigenous matters, while the majority showed little concern. The causes of this indifference are twofold: firstly, non-Indigenous Australians lack understanding of Indigenous cultures, which is related to the legacy of imperialism and colonialism, as well as insufficient coverage of Indigenous history in the education system. Simultaneously, Indigenous peoples themselves face structural barriers within the education system and challenges regarding identity. Secondly, there is a lack of interaction and shared experiences between Indigenous and non-Indigenous groups. The Indigenous population constitutes a small proportion of the total population and predominantly resides in remote communities, leading to difficulties in communication between the two groups and, consequently, the social alienation of Indigenous peoples from the mainstream community.

Deliberate neglect manifests as acknowledging the disadvantaged position of Indigenous peoples but attributing it to their own shortcomings. This perspective frames Indigenous peoples as inferior to white people, as evidenced in various stereotypes held by non-Indigenous Australians. The root of these negative impressions lies in the sense of superiority fostered by a collective white identity. These negative stereotypes, which have persisted since the colonial era, were still present during the 2023 "Indigenous Voice" referendum. Contemporary policy directions and media coverage continue to portray Indigenous peoples in a one-sided manner, reinforcing negative stereotypes among non-Indigenous people and deepening their neglect of Indigenous communities.

Cultural blame is the third manifestation of racial discrimination. Its underlying rationale is the belief that "Indigenous peoples are just sitting idly, waiting for others to do things for them." During the referendum, this took the form of accusations that Indigenous peoples enjoyed excessive privileges and attributing responsibility for domestic economic problems to them. This form of racial discrimination, expressed through cultural blame, is detrimental to all citizens because it diverts public attention from the structural issues collectively faced, thereby weakening the collective will to address these problems.

3 Shared Aspirations and Harmonious Coexistence Between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians

This section explores the common interests of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in opposing racism and pursuing harmonious coexistence. Racism not only harms Indigenous peoples but also negatively affects non-Indigenous people through misinformation and wasteful allocation of resources. Indigenous struggles for land rights reflect a trait in Australian culture that fights for freedom, aligning with the values of mateship and equality. Indigenous culture can serve as an entry point for decolonization and reconciliation, with its arts and culture playing a role on the international stage in shaping a new national identity. The Australian government has begun to respect Indigenous knowledge, promoting its integration with modern systems. For instance, the National Science Statement reflects respect for Indigenous scientific knowledge, and funding support in areas like clean energy fosters reconciliation and social equality between both sides.

4 Conclusion

This section concludes that the failure of the 2023 Australian "Indigenous Voice" referendum was primarily rooted in racism, manifested as indifference, neglect, and misunderstanding of Indigenous cultures by non-Indigenous people. Underlying this racism is the ideology of "white supremacy," which obscures the genuine societal contradictions and infringes upon the rights of both sides. Therefore, eliminating racial discrimination and promoting reconciliation are crucial tasks for the future of Australian society, with understanding and respecting Indigenous culture being the key entry point.