The forgotten people: liberal and conservative approaches to recognising Indigenous Peoples

The Forgotten People challenges the assumption that constitutional recognition of indigenous Australians is a project of the left in Australia.It demonstrates that there may be a set of reforms that can achieve the change sought by indigenous leaders, while addressing the critical concerns of constitutional conservatives and classical liberals. More than that, this collection illustrates the genuine goodwill that many Australians, including Major General Michael Jeffery, Cardinal George Pell, Chris Kenny and Malcolm Mackerras, share for achieving indigenous recognition that is practically useful and symbolically powerful.

"This book is fascinating because it represents the important foundational step of those constitutional conservatives who believe there is a sound reason for change then embarking on the task of convincing each other how that change could be best achieved ...'" Christian Porter MP
"A marvellous collection of considered and passionate responses from leading Australians." Janet Albrechtsen
"I urge you to open this book and your mind to engage in making a better Australia." Rachel Perkins
"A most timely book." Michael Kirby
"The Forgotten People is a further important contribution to this debate. It signals an ongoing commitment and intellectual contribution by a leading cast of conservative figures to the goal of changing the Australian Constitution to recognise indigenous peoples." George Williams — The Australian