Big W has decided to discontinue in-store public announcements endorsing the Indigenous Voice to Parliament after receiving feedback from staff and customers.
The retail giant, owned by the Woolworth Group, decided after the chain’s stores began reading out a statement during NAIDOC week.
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The company has expressed its commitment to the proposed Voice advisory body and its foundation documentation, the Uluru Statement from the Heart.
The full version of the announcement, which backed the Voice to Parliament and its constitution enshrinement, received objections from employees and consumers.
A Big W spokesperson told The Australian that the company will revert to its previous acknowledgement of the country’s in-store message.
“We recognise and respect our team, and customers have varying views and perspectives,” the statement said.
In June, Big W encountered a customer who gave a one-star review to a book explaining how the Indigenous Voice to Parliament would work.
The retailer responded, reiterating its commitment to reconciliation and inclusivity.
Woolworths’ Facebook page had been littered with complaints about the political stance.
“‘I object strongly to Big W making in-store announcements supporting the Uluru Statement from the Heart and telling customers how important it is for the company that you vote ‘Yes’ in The Voice referendum,’ one person said.
According to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the referendum to enshrine First Nations People in the Constitution and establish an advisory body is expected to take place around October or November.
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