Wednesday, 21 September 2022

 Ms WATT (Northern Metropolitan) (11:00): Uncle Jack Charles was born to a nation that did not consider him a citizen. He came to the end of his life as someone who changed the very cultural, political, legal and social fabric of our state. The injustices for gay men in our legal system were not known until Uncle Jack made them known to our community. Uncle Jack had a colourful past as he battled his demons, but with his leadership and strong voice he helped shape our spent convictions legislation. But it was his truth telling for the families and descendants of the stolen generations that rest with me. He was the first elder to speak at the Yoorrook Justice Commission and there was his work with the stolen generations reparations scheme. As I reflect on the man, I think back to the call from my mum as she told me how upset she was and how she had just been yarning to him at the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service and how she will miss seeing him on his scooter on Smith Street. Me too, Mum, me too. To all the mob that mourn him, I join you in tears of sadness and celebration for what our lives look like now that we have shared it with Uncle Jack. Rest now, Uncle. Rest now.