Broken Heart

A True History of the Voice Referendum

Shireen Morris

$36.99

Paperback

Forthcoming
Pre-Order now

QTY:

English

LA TROBE UNIVERSITY PRESS
19 August 2024

History; Elections & referenda

The inside story of the 2023 Voice Referendum, from Yes to No

In late 2023, Australians voted 'No' to recognising Indigenous peoples through a constitutional Voice. Broken Heart unpacks the true, complex history of the referendum, illuminating how an alliance between Indigenous advocates and constitutional conservatives fractured under political pressure, and a proposal conceived in compromise was killed by partisan politics.

Told from the unique insider perspective of a constitutional lawyer who worked closely with Noel Pearson on the Voice for over a decade, this book analyses the mistakes of the government and 'Yes' advocates, the fickleness and ultimate intransigence of the right, and the betrayals and lies that led to the referendum's defeat.

Broken Heart tells a story of hope and tragedy. But its lessons will assist future reformers and leaders who want to make Australia a better place.

'This is the story of a broken heart and of a large one. Shireen Morris has written an indispensable account of the hard way of the constitutional reformer in this country. An enthralling tale of hope, commitment and goodwill, as well as mendacity, opportunism and betrayal.' Frank Bongiorno, author of Dreamers and Schemers

'Powerful and moving . . . Broken Heart is an erudite and forensic analysis of a nation-defining political campaign, ultimately destroyed by betrayal and self-interest. It challenges us to learn, reflect and remain energised if we are to become a better, fairer country.' Larissa Behrendt, host of Speaking Out

By: Shireen Morris
Imprint: LA TROBE UNIVERSITY PRESS
Country of Publication: Australia
Dimensions: Height: 1mm, Width: 1mm,
Weight: 1g
ISBN: 9781760645205
ISBN 10: 1760645206
Pages: 256
Publication Date: 19 August 2024
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Shireen Morris is director of the Radical Centre Reform Lab and a senior lecturer at Macquarie University Law School. She has worked for many years with Noel Pearson and the Cape York Institute as senior adviser on Indigenous constitutional recognition. Her books include Radical Heart, A Rightful Place and The Forgotten People. She is the co-editor (with Damien Freeman) of Statements from the Soul- Making the Moral Case for the Uluru Statement from the Heart.