Deakin University has rejected a call to change its name.
The University had been called on by some staff and students to change the name – which honours Alfred Deakin – one of the architects of Federation, but also the white Australia policy.
The university instead saying it will focus on openly discussing Deakin’s legacy and how the nation moves forward.
“Alfred Deakin was a complex individual who brings with him an equally complex legacy,” the university’s document entitled “Clearing the Way: Deakin University and the Alfred Deakin legacy – a Tanderrum” says.
“This legacy has resulted in questions for us as a University, including from Alfred Deakin’s own family members.
“To ensure unimpeded passage, the parties to this Tanderrum, underpinned by mutual respect for each other and the future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, have arrived at a position that accounts for the past and garners the future.
“We do, however, reject wholeheartedly being captured by, or colluding with, the darkness of history. We should all be drawn towards the light of the future.
“Through this Tanderrum, both parties agree to reject the proposition to change the name of the University and jointly commit to truthtelling and elevating the understanding and acknowledgement of the full history of our country.”
