Support our local indigenous culture
For thousands of years the continent was managed and conserved by indigenous Australians and through understanding indigenous culture we can come to appreciate and gain a spiritual connection to the land.
Indigenous communities across Australia had extensive ecological knowledge which enabled them to survive and thrive in a harsh dry continent for over 30,000 years. They know how to find food in every climate and season; they understand the medicinal properties of plants; and undertook intricate land management using fire, to increase the types of animals and plants that would be available. Underlying and resulting from this, they have a strong connection to both the land and to their understanding of it, the ’Dreaming’.
A small step in our conciliation with the indigenous people is to understand and respect the significance of their knowledge, culture and relationship with the land. Our interest and respect will support the indigenous community, and assist us moving forward in Australia’s journey of conciliation with its traditional owners.
How to do it now!
There are many ways to learn and support indigenous culture. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Increase you knowledge of what reconciliation really means. If you do not understand what something is how can we achieve it? Through understanding we can take actions to contribute to everyone walking together. See Reconciliation Australia to gain an understanding of what reconciliation really means.
Purchase indigenous artwork and products. Many indigenous artists use the proceeds from selling their art to support their family and community. The Australian Government’s Culture Portal provides a good introduction to indigenous art. aboriginalart.org links you to Aboriginal owned and operated Art Centres' websites in the Top End of the Northern Territory, north of Western Australia and throughout Central Australia.
Get to know your local indigenous history. Most areas of Australia had vibrant indigenous cultures and histories prior to the arrival of European settlers. Explore the indigenous history of your local area through a range of local literature. The Australian Government’s Culture Portal provides a starting point.
Visit your local indigenous cultural centre. Many areas of Australia have indigenous cultural centres, open to the general public, where visitors are invited to take a journey through time to explore the way the local indigenous people lived prior to the arrival of Europeans.
Why is this action important?
Modern life has led many of us to disconnect from nature and to forget how deeply we depend on the health and vitality of the environment. Indigenous people, through many centuries of experience have developed a spiritual connection, understanding and deep appreciation of their land. There is much to gain by exploring and respecting the wisdom and ways of Australia’s first people.