Bring our young men home

In the heart of Western Australia lies a haunting silence, broken only by the whispers of families and communities who are mourning their lost sons. The Kimberley and Pilbara regions, known for their breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, have become a ground zero for a troubling epidemic: the disappearance of young Aboriginal men. These disappearances are not just statistics; they are the untold stories of brothers, sons, and friends who vanished without a trace. It's a crisis that demands our urgent attention and action.

This crisis extends beyond personal grief. It reflects a systemic issue that plagues our society: racism, neglect, and a lack of resources. For too long, the voices of Indigenous communities have been drowned out by the indifference of those in power. The disappearance of these young men is not a coincidence; it is a symptom of a deeper problem that requires our collective effort to address. Why is there no intense media campaign (outside of the efforts of family) or Reward offered for information?

People don't just disappear without a trace. Someone, somewhere, saw or knows something. It is imperative that we create an environment where witnesses feel safe to come forward. Fear of reprisal, mistrust in the authorities, and social stigma often prevent crucial information from surfacing. As a society, we must build bridges of trust and ensure that every lead is thoroughly investigated. Our silence only perpetuates the suffering of families and the erosion of our collective humanity.

In the fight to bring our young men home, we must harness the power of community and social media. Sharing posts, saying their names, and keeping their stories at the forefront of public consciousness are vital steps in our advocacy. When we share their names Jeremiah ‘Jayo’ Rivers, Wesley Lockyer, Clinton Lockyer , Wylie Oscar and Zane Stevens, we are doing more than just spreading awareness; we are affirming their humanity and refusing to let them be forgotten.

We need to stand united in demanding action from authorities. Every disappearance should be met with a rigorous and transparent investigation. We need dedicated task forces and increased funding for search efforts, and support services for families.

This is a national tragedy that we cannot ignore. These men are not just statistics; they are our brothers, sons, grandsons, fathers and friends. Their families deserve answers, and our communities deserve justice. By standing together, sharing their stories, and demanding action, we can bring our young men home. Let us not allow their names to fade into the void of silence and neglect. Keep saying their names. Keep their stories alive. And most importantly, let us work tirelessly until every missing person is found and every family is given the closure they deserve.

If you know something, call Crimestoppers 1800 333 000. Any and all information could be relevant!

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