Thursday, March 28

Uluru-Kata-Tjuta National Park, Australia

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According to the list of must-see places for travelers in 2023, Uluru-Kata-Tjuta is “The heart of the shape-changing sandstone continent and its indigenous heritage.” According to the editors of the New York Times, the national park deserves to be mentioned not only because of the beautiful views, but also because of the example of protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, for whom this place is sacred.

At Uluru, time stretches, dissolves. Over 500 million years old, the 1,142-foot sandstone monolith in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a shape-shifter: aflame in pink, orange and violet through the day; its crevices gush with the rain, its surroundings erupt with wildflowers.

 

Now, Uluru is a symbol of urgency. In 2017, it was the site of the Uluru Statement From the Heart, which calls for an Indigenous “voice to Parliament” to be enshrined in Australia’s Constitution. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced there would be a national referendum on the issue in 2023.

Uluru is sacred to the Anangu people, who protect and manage the land, and for decades tourists climbed the rock against their wishes. Climbing was banned in 2019, and now visitors can take a 5.8-mile walk around Uluru’s base to experience its splendor. The ban was a rare victory for Indigenous rights and cultural respect, and evidence that even deep-rooted attitudes can change. (Tacey Rychter)

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