Polls say No is growing, but local Yes campaigners march on

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According to the polls, most Australians plan to give the October 14 referendum the cold shoulder by voting No.

However, supporters of a Yes vote say they received mostly a warm welcome when they door knocked homes in West Hoxton on the weekend.

Members of Liverpool for Yes spoke to hundreds of community members, explaining why they ought to support a Yes vote in the upcoming referendum for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. 

For many of the group’s volunteers, it was the first time they had knocked on doors, and many had never before been involved in a social or political cause.

Responses to the campaigners were warm, with many residents turning their minds to the historic referendum for the first time. 

Liverpool for Yes captain Rayan Calimlim said he was heartened by the community’s warm reception to his group.

“While many residents had not spent much time yet thinking about the referendum, people were keen to talk with campaigners and discuss their thoughts about this simple idea of guaranteeing Indigenous Australians a Voice in the constitution so they will get a chance to advise government on policies that affect their communities.

“We found residents of West Hoxton were receptive to the idea of a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament, and showed their generosity and warmth to campaigners.” 

“We had some great people in our group. They came from different backgrounds, were interested in the issues and were generous with their time,” Mr Calimlim said. 

“We’re looking forward to continuing our efforts to build support for the constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through a Voice to Parliament over the upcoming weeks.” 

The local Yes campaigners are planning activities in Moorebank, Lurnea, Leppington and Liverpool this upcoming week.

And up to 50 supporters are expected to join a doorknock this Sunday at Cecil Hills.

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