Hundreds of people gathered at vigils across Australia on Thursday to mourn the death of five-year-old Warlpiri girl Kumanjayi Little Baby, whose body was found after a five-day search in Alice Springs. The national body representing First Nations children, SNAICC, has called for an end to the politicisation of her death, urging focus on healing and support for the grieving family.
In Melbourne, about 400 people attended a vigil at the Aborigines Advancement League, wearing pink and holding candles. Yorta Yorta Elder Uncle Graham 'Boots' Cooper said the gatherings were about remembering the little girl and helping her family heal. 'I hope the families in Alice Springs can heal and they take it in their hearts to see what we’re here for,' he said.
In Canberra, around 100 people gathered at the Aboriginal tent embassy for a silent vigil, with flowers, wreaths, and a cross with pink fairy wings. Traditional owners conducted a smoking ceremony, and mourners observed a minute's silence. Organisers said the event was about 'holding space' for the family and community in Alice Springs, not for protest.
Kumanjayi Little Baby was last seen by her mother at 11.30pm on 25 April, tucked into bed at the Old Timers town camp. She was reported missing at 1.30am, and after a five-day search involving hundreds of volunteers and over 200 police, her body was found 5km south. A 47-year-old man, Jefferson Lewis, has been charged with murder and other offences.
Her family has called for silence while they conduct sorry business, and vigil organisers asked attendees to leave flags at home and gather in 'shared sorrow and respect'. Catherine Liddle, CEO of SNAICC, said the death highlights the trauma in Alice Springs and called for community support rather than political debate.
