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.
112 Comments. Leave new
Hi Aunty Munya, and Carla,
I’m Dee, and I recently moved to Victoria, Australia, to live with the love of my life. So far I have been thrilled at the beautiful scenery, and I am enjoying the birds, and animals,that I have seen.
I previously lived in New Zealand, which is beautiful too, but I am so happy to now call Australia: home.
I have read a small amount about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, but need to learn so much more. I cannot wait to start. Can you recommend any books, documentaries, etc that I can use. Have a wonderful day!
I want to have as many conversations as I can with people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander background so that I can understand their perspective even better. I want to use my knowledge of economics and history to challenge myths and the misunderstanding of other Australians.
My whole life I knew the education system & government were lying to us. I got into big trouble in year 2 for disagreeing with “terra nullius.” I refused to accept this notion and was scolded and penalised for it. Travelling with my mother opal mining in northwestern NSW gave me more insight than going to the school next door to the Federal parliament house in Canberra. I attended the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in front of the original now old Parliament House often and got on well with everyone. I listened and learnt a lot living between Lightning Ridge opal fields and the Aboriginal Embassy in Canberra, I could not understand why the government was treating people this way and because our teachers were not allowed to tell us the truth, I had to find out for myself. Many moons later, in 2017 I graduated UOW double major in Climate, Culture, Environment AND Indigenous Studies. Finally finishing my education after leaving school early. Learning something that was not on offer when I attended as a youngster. I have always been an ally and will not tolerate conversations of belittling or ignorance. If I knew when I was 6 or 7 years old, then everyone can know.
I had dinner with my friends last week, and they had a comment about indigents living on government money, and abusing the system, it did not come from heat or anger but as a point of view so I told them another point of view about the English people in Australia that do it too and to take into the account the trauma first nation people are still having and I gave them my view about it and it seems like they never looked at it this way and asked a lot of questions which was nice. I couldn’t answer all of them as I’m not First Nation, but I know enough to make them think differently.
It makes me happy to be able to change people’s point of view.
Well done Yonit! It sounds like you handled the situation perfectly and may have even inspired some more allies! We wrote an article about transforming difficult conversations like these which you might enjoy: https://www.evolves.com.au/three-steps-to-transform-difficult-conversations/
I make regular donations to Wangan and Jagalingou and Black Duck Foods. I also swapped out my European masters art work handbag for local Indigenous artists handbags over the years.
I read. I have read: Black Emu, Sandtalk, Fire Country, Black Duck ,Trauma Trails and 2 others that I do’nt remember the title of.
I shall keep reading. My eyes are opening right up.
Fantastic actions! It’s so important as non-Indigenous Australians that we commit to educating ourselves. Also supporting First Nations businesses is a practical way to close the wealth gap. Great work Suzanne.
We have implemented Reconciliation action team at work and have begun the process of putting together a Reconciliation Action Plan for the business.
That’s fantastic – I encourage your RAP team to jump on our free webinar about creating inspiring workplaces for First Nations people here: https://www.evolves.com.au/diversity-inclusion-webinar/
Speak up when I spot racism. Support Black Duck foods.
Too deadly Melanie – “Speak up” is one of the 5 tips for Allies that you can learn more about here: https://www.evolves.com.au/becoming-an-ally/
Our Reconciliation Action Group is a passionate collective of individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds, yet the organisation in which we work has no openly identifying First Nations people. Our commitment is to change that; to create a space that is culturally appropriate, safe and supportive, through a network of allies within the organisation and by challenging our own privileged place in this community. We have learnt that it is through small gestures, like challenging racist attitudes via myth busting and considered debate, that we can have the most impact. Educating ourselves and those with whom we work is an ongoing journey that has opened each one of us up to new ways of thinking and doing.
Spot on Gai! You and your RAP team might find our free Diversity & Inclusion training helpful as well: https://www.evolves.com.au/diversity-inclusion-webinar/
In my workplace we are actively promoting reconciliation, not as a tick-box exercise, rather to create room for people to ask questions and understand. To listen. As part of Reconciliation Week we are planning to host a screening of Occupation: Native. A film available under license from SBS that creates an opportunity to have the important and positive conversation about what’s been missing from Australian history books.
Sounds like you work for a fantastic organisation Sandy. Let us know if there is anything we can do to support your Reconciliation journey.
To gather several pieces of artwork and align the artist’s story to an “acknowledgment on country” for our teams to live, play, share, and work on. Storytelling promotes a spiritual richness of safety and the capturing of wisdom from persons of all ages, especially children. My life was, and has forever been enriched by the storytelling of the First Nation Kooma People. I have been an ally of the dreamtime all my life, still learning about the spiritual connections promoting community safety through Dreamtime stories.
That’s wonderful Kenneth. Aunty Munya also believes that Dreamtime is for everyone, not just Aboriginal people. She wrote this book to share the wisdom of her culture: https://www.evolves.com.au/dreamtime-book/
Oh, what a different land this could have been if the difference of weaponry had been a little more equal. My wish is that every time an elder is elected, we celebrate it nationally as we do all the other titled and entitled of this land. Always was and always is …. you know the rest.
A creative idea Peter – thanks for sharing.
I’m making sure that our Aboriginal families are given priority so we can try to close the gap regarding children’s health, development and so Aboriginal families receive the support they are seeking. I’m raising the concept of providing culturally safe and appropriate services with my colleagues so we provide the support in a manner and place that is best for the Aboriginal family we are working with. I’m checking in with my Aboriginal colleagues to check what we are doing is appropriate and am also receiving regular mentoring from them. I’m bringing my attention to my white privilege’s and am aiming to have increased cultural humility and awareness and to put this front and centre everyday.
That sounds absolutely amazing Sue. Please encourage the non-Indigenous members of your team to participate in our free Ally training: https://www.evolves.com.au/ally-training-webinar/
I am deeply committed to learning and growing myself, and raising my white and privileged young sons to not only recognise the history and systemic oppression of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples but to acknowledge their own privilege and act on the responsibility this means they have to be allys for life.
Amazing work Jade. Our online privilege walk is a great tool to demonstrate the privilege gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and would be suitable for older children (12+): https://pages.evolves.com.au/online-privilege-walk
In my work with employers of refugees I can see how this process can help employers and their managers to see the importance of addressing the biases and barriers in their employment practices to First Nations – I will position the work I do on cultural diversity to never leave out or excuse exclusion of First Nations experience.
Too deadly Neil. We absolutely agree that Indigenous cultural awareness training is an important step towards creating a more inclusive workplace, for everyone. Wishing you well with your work and please feel free to make use of our free resources: https://www.evolves.com.au/free-resources/
In 2023 I was reacquainted with the concept of imperfect allyship through my work in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service. As a Social Worker with more than 30 years experience, someone who has lived and worked in the Kimberley region of WA for 13 odd years, and someone who identified as an ally I have become increasingly aware how much learning there is for me to do in this space – both personally and professionally. I have decided that 2024 is a year for doing things differently, for listening more and speaking less, for calling myself (and others) out when unconscious bias, or white privilege or racism cross my path. As I lean into my own vulnerability, I have made a commitment to journal about my learnings and to share allyship resources I discover along the way as widely as I can. And so it is with gratitude that I have connected with Evolve Communities. Keep up the good work.
I resonate with this Jenni. To speak less and listen more has been a goal of mine for some time. And it sometimes conflicts with the work I has done as a woman to speak up in times I have felt silenced. I walk this earth with so much privilege and I need to make sure that my actions elevate the voices of First Nations people whenever possible.
I have established a Facebook Group and a website to share an idea of a non-govemnent community funded National Voice so it is self-supporting in partnership with Allies/Non-Indigenous people.
The idea is for First Nations People to
• establish/elect a National Get-Together (Conference Congress, Convention) to be representative of the 250 Clans/ Mobs
• establish the National Voice as an independent body, selected by elders and/or community representatives as outlined in the Uluru Statement from the Heart
OR by building upon the Uluru Statement from the Heart consultation process and its findings, First Nations peoples decide an alternative way to establish their National Voice
• facilitate setting up a non-profit charitable diverse inclusive community-based and funded organisation/network (separate from The National Voice – utilising an existing or new organisattion.)
– supporting the National Voice and National Conference and being directed by it,
– with the goal of improving First Nations People’s health and well-being
(including education, employment, housing etc.)
– by promoting truth telling, treaty & social justice, and supporting projects such as anti-racism /anti-discrimination information, education.
• build upon existing supportive networks of First Nations people and Allies e.g. Clans, Mobs< Indigenous organisations etc and Allies – approx. 70,000 YES Campaign supporters/ 6 million YES voters)
• operate upon guiding principles of self-determination, respect, creativity, unity in diversity, autonomy, avoiding duplication, transparency, accountability.
Hi Rona
What is the name of this Facebook group? Can anyone access it for more information or is it targeted so a select cohort?
Promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander owned businesses. I have worked in social procurement for many years and I advocate for First Nations’ businesses in my work. In my personal life, my family buy products from First Nations
businesses where we can. We wear Ally suitable merch from Clothing the Gap and I promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses on social media platforms including LinkedIn.
As the grand,mother of a beautiful 5yr old indigenous boy i have and will cotinue on my mission to fascilitate his connection to land and ensure he is aware of his history and his long and far stretching long line of relatives (mob)and to educate those of which are ignorant around me, of the same.
The Northern half of Australia, where I now live, is 16% Aboriginal and they are markedly more disadvantaged than those in the South (who still don’t have it great).
I have considered ways to address this vast issue, including secession and the building of a new nation based on more inclusive principles.
There’s very little chance of succeeding with a referendum in Australia (as we have recently noted once more) and, with so much of Australia’s natural resources being exploited from the North, they are never likely to let that go anyway.
That leaves us with the option of working with the Australian government, as it stands. A daunting prospect, when that government is far more concerned with pulling money and minerals out of the North than with putting the hand in the pocket and boots on the ground to actually do anything about developing it.
The Office of Northern Australia (Indigenous Reference Group) have got some solid ideas around working with people, in place and developing local business and education. Sounds great, but will anything happen? Not without funding
As an older white male, I firmly believe that my contemporaries are largely the issue. They are enmeshed in the culture of making profits or being re-elected, which prevents most from seeing that anything is wrong or to think outside their limited box to creative solutions.
I firmly believe that those creative solutions are likely to come from communities. Can we get someone out to talk with people, who will actually listen? Then follow it up with some funding and support?
That gap ain’t gonna close itself!
My step father was Indigenous and my cousins sre Indigenous on my mothers side. Despite this I learned nothing – not from family or school.
All my learning is through listening to Indigenous music snd then reading as nothing I can get my hands on. First book I read was in the 80s. It presented the truths that I was denied.
In terms of progressing cultural knowledge for Whitefellas, I’ve started a Facebook group with some Indigenous friends called Aboriginal Truth Telling where we share the blakfulla stories that are the real true stories.
One of my teachers took me to a death sun custody rally in the 80s s and that changed my course.
I think this project is great and Thankyou.
My current project is working with the local land council to get history of the land I inhabit. There is some area of significance & I wish to preserve this for the Elders to use snd care for Country.
Other than that, I don’t know where my journey will end. But I do know my life is richer for having decent people in my life. Many of whom are Indigenous. I’m lucky for their friendship.
Healesville
I watched The Australian Wars and promote it for recommended viewing wherever I can. This education was absent from education in the 1970-80s.
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 am not sure, but my heart is with you. I value the enormous body of knowledge that my own deep ancestorsjave shared with me establishing my heart connection to my own ancestral lands. When that connection occurred I begun to undetstand the importance for all peoples to honor their connection to place. The understanding game of the huge burden of severance that has been placed on all I dimensions people through colonialisation. Though my ancient connection is to the Celtic lands in Britain, I feel for the burden that has placed on you by this false system. So I stand with you, as I stand with all other indigenous people who have been ripped from their connection to their Country. It took me a long g times ‘remember’ what I think you would call my dreaming in my own culture, which is not this economic creation that has eenimposed on us all. So, best I can do.
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.
I am volunteering for the YES campaign and having a conversation with everyone I come into contact with during my day – friends, family, hairdresser, readies, gym instructor etc. I’m also volunteering on a documentary about young girls from the Tiwi Islands who set out on a journey to follow their sporting dreams.
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
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,
.
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.