Virtual Freedom Ride: An homage to the 1965 Freedom Ride launches in Canberra

Joseph Guenzler Published August 3, 2023 at 1.00pm (AWST)

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Prof. Maree Meredith and Prof Paddy Nixon launching VFR at University of Canberra (Image: Supplied/VFR)

In a symbolic echo of history, students in Australia are once again taking a stand for social change.

Inspired by student activists in the 1960s, they are now embracing a modern approach through the Virtual Freedom Ride (VFR) website.

The VFR, set to be launched at the University of Canberra today, has been developed to empower students to advocate for Indigenous rights from their homes.

In the 1965 freedom ride students chartered a bus to campaign for Indigenous rights across rural New South Wales.

*Fifty years ago, from February 12 to 26, 1965, Charles Perkins led a group of students from the University of Sydney on a freedom ride. (Image: AIATSIS)*

University of Canberra Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Leadership) Professor Maree Meredith said: "Students in 1965 had to charter a bus with a hastily scrawled campaign sign on a sheet as they headed off on the famed Freedom Ride to campaign for Aboriginal rights."

"This year, students advocating for Indigenous people can have an impact without even leaving the comfort of their own lounge room, with the support of the new Virtual Freedom Ride website," she said.

"Staff and students have been asking what they can do for months now, not just to advocate for the Voice but also to stand up against some of the inaccurate information that they see about the Voice."

The new website, which is facilitated by the University's Indigenous Leadership team, aims to address misinformation surrounding the Voice and provide in-depth insights into the referendum proposal.

"With a click of a mouse or a post from their phone, students can join the Virtual Freedom Ride, as we fight misinformation," Prof. Meredith said.

*Professor Maree Meredith at the launch of VFR at UC (Image: Supplied/VFR)*

The historical significance of student activism in Australia cannot be overstated as students from Sydney's universities in 1965 played a crucial role in highlighting the marginalisation of Aboriginal people, ultimately contributing to the successful referendum.

This landmark referendum allowed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to be recognised as part of the country's population.

"The VFR aims to combat misinformation and build understanding about the proposed Voice," Prof. Meredith said.

"It is apolitical and simply a grassroots movement for students and staff who want to make change.

"This is a once-in-a generation opportunity for change. I'm really delighted to see so many staff and students lining up for the opportunity to help make change."