Our big ten year goal is to inspire 10 million Allies to create a kinder, more inclusive Australia.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up just 3% of Australia’s population. That’s why it’s so important for the rest of us, the other 97%, to step up now and take action.
So what action will you take? Help us reach our goal by sharing your ideas in the comments.
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After working with a community I realised that the information that I had received as a kid in school was criminally wrong. I then took steps to educate myself about the history and current situation within First Nations Peoples. First I did a Graduate Certificate in Aboriginal Engagement with Charles Darwin University and currently completing a Masters of Aboriginal Studies with University of South Australia. My eyes have been opened.
Since I have been completing Aboriginal Studies at university, I talk to my son about the history, knowledge and connection to Country I am learning about. He learnt nothing about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during his schooling, he is only 20. He rang after he voted to say he had voted yes. I think if we can have conversations with people in our everyday lives, then it will keep being part of our everyday lives, and not seem like such a gap between the Traditional Owners and western society.
Listen to and buy Indigenous artists music too, I followed Archie Roach from his album Charcoal Lane, as a Kiwi I did not realize the struggle Indigenous Australians were having until I discovered the stories behind his songs, I felt very ignorant, but it has helped me learn
I would like to see an indigenous educator in every school across Australia. Just as we have special Ed teachers and assistants so there should be an indigenous teacher from country.
In my job I work with people all over Australia who work in schools, colleges and universities. Some institutions are doing really good things to recognise, share knowledge and develop understanding of culture.
I want to see this happening in more of the institutions I work with, so I am going to start by ensuring that as an organisation we make a pledge to include programming that encourages this in the projects we run.
Lead by example.
Relating to Stolen Generation:
Get everone in the room to write down their name, culture, where they are from, DOB and what makes them special. They will read them out loud later. Get them to leave them face down and go and have morning tea. Whilst they are away, go and rip up their bit of paper and scatter them leaving one peice that they will never find.
When they come back in, ask them how they feel about their paper being ripped up. Ask them to know put it back together. If they do manage to put the pieces back together it will never be whole because you kept once piece.
This represents the Stolen Generation. The paper respresents their identity, who they are, what they love and how proud they are of who they are. Ripping of the paper respresents the government not caring for who they are or how they feel. Putting it back together again represents how hard it for the Stolen Generation to take back their life and find who they are and where they belong. The last piece will never be found and this represents those who lost family, never found their children, loved ones or know who they are. A lot of the Stolen Generation does not know their own birth date. They were give 1st of July
I did this years ago and I have never forgotten they way it made me feel. I was so excited for people to know who I was and it was taken away from me. I could never imagine the hurt and pain the Stolen Generation and future generations feel but I know it was devistating to say the least
What a powerful exercise Anja – thank you so much for sharing it with us.
I have been sourcing and reading both fiction and non- fiction works by First Nation authors. I am going to bring my small library of books to my workplace and reference voices of these authors in meetings and co-facilitated cultural safety training where appropriate. I will also lend out books to my colleagues who are often ask for ideas on what to read in the allyship space.
Grabbing every opening for a conversation with family, friends and colleagues to share knowledge of my privilege, encourage them to understand their privilege and spark ideas on how this brings obligation and opportunity in supporting those with less privilege but equal value as fellow Australians
*Actively support First Nations people I know and others I admire
*Learn more every day about First Nations culture, experiences and spirituality
* Teach and share with non-indigenous people in my own organisation, my family and friends.
*Advocate for First Nations models of care in health and Ageing, work with First Nations Researchers and organisations to further outcomes and adoption of models into the sector more broadly
*Celebrate, absorb and interact with amazing talented actors, dancers, professionals and creators – be proud of our 60+ thousand years of culture
I vow to seek an education on what cultural needs at work look like in Gadigal country to start with.
And then I vow to work with any HR group I work with in the future for advocate for these cultural needs.
As a transplant to Australia about 30 years ago, I have been very fortunate and blessed to have developed personal and professional relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples here around the FNQ region. They made me welcome as a new Australian, and I want to return that care by working with a spirit of true reconciliation. Culture is so dynamic and diverse across the land, and I want to continue to learn and grow in understanding so I can increase cultural safety in my workplaces and be part of creating a kinder and more supportive environment for all.
I was already aware that my privilege existed but the online walk just pointed out privileges that I wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. I will pass this knowledge on to others and encourage them to participate. I will continue to intercept racial comments and stereotyping within my workplace and everyday life. I will continue to educate and encourage my children and family to learn about culture and indigenous Australians. And teach them to be compassionate and respectful to all. This change starts with us adults and we need to ensure racism is not taught to our children.
I will continue to remove myself from Australia day celebrations and to explain to family and friends why I cannot support a celebration of a day that is not inclusive.
Seek reputable sources for information — the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and organisations and those who are close allies. Evolve Communities is a perfect example of going straight to the source!
Amplify the voices of Indigenous peoples whenever I get the opportunity, support Indigenous businesses and artists, connect with the Kaurna people by visiting the Living Kaurna Centre.
I have volunteered to assist on my organisation’s RAP to learn the stories of new and existing project sites by developing relationships with local Aboriginal people to incorporate these stories into future considerations for the site/project.
I am keen to support all areas of the RAP to bring a greater understanding of our First Nations people’s history and culture.
Too deadly Rosie! That sounds like an amazing project and opportunity to connect with Country. We’d love to hear these stories when you have finished.
As an educator I really want to educate our young generation to respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. Acknowledgement of the country must recognise at school and early year learning. We need to encourage our children’s understanding more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait islander culture, history and Respects with LOVE and CARE .
We agree and will soon be publishing an “Ask Aunty” book for children – watch this space!
Assist others in my profession to understand that learning about our first nations peoples, respect for country and having this part of mandatory continuing professional development is essential as part of the future of true sustainability.
100% Kylie! We would like to see all people leaders Accredited as Allies http://www.evolveally.com
As an Early Childhood Teacher I want to bring the culture and history of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People into the hearts and minds of young children. My challenge is that I am a ‘new’ Australian with European roots -and a little accent for good measure ? ! I am looking to connect with Elders that can help me in this journey and came across your site. Looking forward to learning more!
Welcome to our community Paula. It all starts with a genuine desire to learn and help create a kinder, more inclusive Australia. You’ll find we have lots of free resources available – many of our Ask Aunty videos are suitable to be shared with young children. Take a look here: https://www.evolves.com.au/free-resources/
Coordinate a projects in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges in Victoria where we can walk together on Wurundjeri Country. I am doing this by “Creating opportunities for First Nations peoples and Hills peoples to connect, respect, learn and celebrate Culture and Country”.
It sounds like a wonderful project Shakti! Where can we learn more?
listen to the book White Fragility
This is one of the books that we recommend to Allies, Gabrielle.
I’m volunteering my time and professional expertise to support a good friend and colleague, Palawa and Bunurong woman to progress her Indigenous mentoring and employment business.
What a wonderful way to put your privilege to good use Liz – congratulations!
Get behind and support the Uluru Statement
Walk with us in a movement of the Australian people for a better future. We call on all sides of politics to support a First Nations Voice to Parliament, so that we can finally have a say on policies and laws that affect us.
We agree Jarrad! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this opportunity for Allies to make a real difference.
I’m looking forward to listening to the Podcasts recommended by Carla and Aunty Munya and watching some of the great content of TV this week. I’m also looking forward to having conversations with friends and family this week and was pleased to be able to offer a different view to a friend earlier in the week. He had been on a road trip through the NT and when I excitedly asked if he had been through any indigenous communities he recounted a story about how he had felt intimidated at a gas station because an indigenous man didn’t look him in the eye when my friend greeted him, my friend had taken this as a sign of hostility. I was pleased to be able to explain that it was probably the opposite and that in fact not looking someone directly in the eye could have been a sign of his respect. He was bemused and humbled that he hadn’t ever learnt about this cultural aspect in all his life as a white Australian and was keen to learn more. I sent him an article to read about cultural awareness and am confident his next encounter will be more informed. Conversations are so important, during Naidoc week and always.
Great insights Tilly! One our most popular workshops is all about unpacking our cultural baggage and learning about different styles of communication. I am so glad that your friend can now bring his new knowledge with him on his travels. Thank you for your Allyship and support.
One of the most important things I think we can do as allies is to physically and personally speak up for people who are commonly discriminated against. For example, if you are with a group of work colleagues and someone makes a racist comment, say something. If you are in the shops and you see a staff person treating a person poorly and you think it’s because of their race, consider interrupting; ask the staff person a question to distract them, etc. There is every day racism that happens that many would like to pretend doesn’t exist, but it does. It’s our job as allies, and as being part of the group that have hurt and oppressed the indigenous/native populations (and other minority groups) to stand up to our own on their behalf.
Interrupting racism is a powerful act of Allyship Jennifer. It takes courage but it doesn’t have to be confrontational. It simply means that you let people who make racist remarks know that you don’t agree with, or support, what they have said. If done right, rather than turning into an argument, it can lead to a stronger relationship. Discover our tips for transforming difficult conversations here: https://www.evolves.com.au/three-steps-to-transform-difficult-conversations/
It is essential that non-Indigenous Australians support the Uluru Statement from the Heart recommendations and expect our government to enshrine a First Nations voice to Parliament in the Constitution and the establish a Makarrata Commission for the purpose of treaty making and truty-telling.
100%!!! You can learn more about the Uluru Statement From The Heart, and show your support for it, here: https://fromtheheart.com.au/
I will continue to work towards my golf club adopting a Reconciliation Action Plan(RAP). To my knowledge, no golf club in the country has a RAP. I think there is a great opportunity for clubs to recognise the privilege and stewardship of the the land that golf clubs occupy.
Too deadly Ben! We would love to be kept informed and celebrate your achievement as the first Golf Club with a RAP. Good luck!
We’ve promoted in our staff newsletter and placed posters up at work for National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week. This week we had a morning tea ‘cuppa & yarn’ with our Acknowledgement of Country, discussion about some key dates; a chat about our RAP and steps to Reconciliation; making opportunities for ‘truth-telling’; cultural awareness training to support cultural safety; and enjoyed some home-baked goodies featuring native bush-food ingredients. We’re encouraging everyone to participate in upcoming NAIDOC Week events.
Sounds like some fantastic events that really demonstrate your organisations commitment to Reconciliation Jane. Thanks so much for sharing all of these excellent ideas with our Allies.
I will listen and hear what my Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander bothers and sisters say. I will think about the ways in which my privilege affects how I see the world and interact with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. I will join in Close the Gap Day, National Reconciliation Week and NAIDOC Week events to learn more and to show my support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Listening and acknowledging your privilege are two important components of Allyship Luke. Thanks so much for sharing your commitments with us.
I have been looking at Deadly Connections Racism Interrupter on Instagram. I haven’t (thankfully!) had to use it yet, but I need to practice it and try interrupting things in other ways.
I find it hard at thinking of the right things on my feet. However, a couple of years ago I was in a situation in an old workplace when people were being racist. I was so unprepared for it, and I promised I would never be unprepared again. I did report the incident (and several others), and I did check in on my First Nations colleague, but I did not interrupt the racism. I want to be prepared for next time. Be ready to interrupt and make it clear it is not ok.
Interrupting Racism does take an enormous amount of courage Jess, and it’s not always appropriate (or safe) to speak up in the moment. Reporting the incident and showing support to the person impacted, as you did, is sometimes the best approach. We provide some suggestions for tackling “difficult” conversations in this article: https://www.evolves.com.au/three-steps-to-transform-difficult-conversations/
Action I will take:
* Learn methods for disrupting racism and use them
* Start an ideas board at work for practical reconciliation, and implement them
* Continue to work for and collaborate with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders
* Create and hand over (and walk away unless otherwise asked) opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in my field of work
* Continue to advocate that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders knowledge and opinions should be included in all of our work
* Listen to what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders want and need, and help them with self-determination and how they want to care for Country where they want us too
A wonderful list of actions Jess – thank you for sharing them with our Allies.
I do the Acknowledgement of Country for an Executive Committee I am a member of. Each time, I share a little bit more about cultural aspects of Wiradjuri Country, which is where I work and live. For example, tell them about the local totem, which is a Magpie or talk about the landscape etc.
We love this Gabrielle! An Acknowledgement of Country can be incredibly inspiring when you speak from the heart and make it your own. You can learn more about why this is such an important protocol and powerful act of leadership and Allyship, here: https://www.evolves.com.au/acknowledging-country-leadership-allyship-reconciliation/
I have an Instagram page dedicated to allyship and advocacy for Aboriginal causes. As I continue my learning I will share the pathway to active allyship for others to contribute too with community news and engagement, Aboriginal businesses to support, dates to remember, petitions to sign and any other tips and information for others to be inspired by. I’m inspired by other ally’s to be as supportive as possible and show actions of L.O.V.E (acronym for: Listen / Learn, Observe, Voice (calling out racism) Educate / Evolve) always. Thank you Evolve for this opportunity to further my learning. I look forward to deepening my participation in this space 🙂
All wonderful commitments Celia and we love L.O.V.E.❣️
I will commit to discuss with my managers at work to consider cultural training as part of our compulsory professional development for next year.
Personally I am committed to continue to learn more in particular about spirituality and the concept of looking after all sentient beings ,animals and plants included. I think that the approach that First Nation People have concerning the interconnection of all living beings is something we all should stop and reflect on.
Wonderful thank you Mariagrazia! Aunty Munya’s book, Journey Into Dreamtime is a great place to start your inquiry around Aboriginal spirituality and soon there will be an online course as well!
I participated in a yarning circle yesterday – thank you was excellent. I will take the privilege walk and encourage my workplace to do some cultural awareness training for staff who are multi-national but none are Indigenous. I have been reading and will be continuing to read books on Aboriginality to better understand this country and the amazing Aboriginal culture . I have in the past, am this year and will continue to gift my nephews and nieces Aboriginal story books (this way parents and children gain awareness).
We are so glad that you enjoyed yarning with us Christine! Some great ideas for Allyship here.
Self reflection on internalised racism, internalised ‘white privilege’ – though I do not identify as ‘white’; continue seeking out opportunities to yarn up & listen up with Indigenous community members with lived experience of – SO MUCH!!! – & Indigenous mentors, cultural guides & Elders. Active membership (as an Associate) of outstanding Indigenous led organisations @Indigenous Allied Health Australia; continuing to improve access, cultural responsiveness, cultural safety & meaningful outcomes in collaborations with Indigenous organisations, where feasible.
Thanks so much for sharing your ideas Ruth. Committing to a lifelong journey of listening, learning, reflecting and taking action is what Allyship is all about.
I will commit to actively and continually growing my knowledge, understanding, and awareness. I will recognise my privileges, and invite the conversations at home, with friends, and through work.
Thanks Lucy for your commitment and courage – let us know how you go.
I will seek to understand what Country I’m on, wherever I am. And, through facilitation and engagement activities I’m involved in, I will encourage others to do the same.
My aspiration is that every Australian knows the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Country they live on, as a small step toward walking together.
#WoiwurrungCounty, Kulin Nation ( Wurundjeri Willam Clan)
This is such a great idea Ross – acknowledging the Traditional Owners and Country is so important.
I will be more active in my RAP group in the workplace
A great practical action to take Joe – the success of your organisation’s Reconciliation Action Plan depends on everyone getting involved!
I will share the privilege walk with my colleagues. I will promote discussion on bias and privilege so I can learn more and raise awareness. When we are aware and learn more, we can change more,
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Thank you Rose – we couldn’t agree more – it all starts with raising awareness. Good luck with this action!
Speak out when racist comments are made. Encourage my children to do the same.
Thank you for taking this courageous action Catherine!
I’ll educate myself more and contribute financially to services that are run by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to help redress some of the inequity of privilege in Australia.
Thank you Soraya – a great example of how you can use your privilege to create equity.
I am working with First Nation Australians on a little booklet to be read and discussed in bookclubs on “things I didn’t know and didn’t dare to ask”, because we believe that many people just don’t know and would support if they did.
This sounds wonderful Nicole! Aunty Munya and I would love to see that when you are finished.
I’ll invite my colleagues to take the Privilege Walk, and I’ll notice, be aware of and recognise my 29 privileges as that and not as a birthright that I simply take for granted.
Thank you Roger – it’s powerful isn’t it, to realise so many of the advantages we have are not accessible to all. I am discovering new privileges all the time.
Practice speaking your truth by yourself, then bit by bit open to the broader community. Gather allies round you if necessary. Move closer and closer to self compassion. If you don’t know…ask
Thank you Annie – great advice, especially about having self compassion as mistakes will happen!
Courageously examine my own privilege. Spend at least 10 minutes every night reading from the massive pile of wonderful Indigenous Authors!!
Encourage open discussion around cultural awareness, creating a safe space for all questions and topics.
Speak up when we hear people making blanket statements or stereotypes.