On this day in 1976 the East Timor People’s Assembly accepted annexation by Indonesia.
This body was put in place after Indonesia had launched a full-scale invasion in 1975.
Resistance to the occupation continued for years as the people struggled to preserve their culture and national identity.
Reports suggests that as many as 200,000 people died during the occupation which continued until 1999 when, in a UN sponsored referendum, the people voted for independence from Indonesia. In 2002 Timor Leste was recognised as an independent nation.
Lord,
I remember well the various protests in Australia in the 1990’s in support of the people of East Timor They gained independence after a two-decade long struggle which left many scars on the landscape and people of that land.
We ask your blessing on this nation as it seeks to heal past divisions and forge a new future.
Amen
By Fr Pat O'Shea - Lower Hutt
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