Anonymous 1158
Anonymous 1158 highlights the thriving First Peoples communities before colonisation, and the way it trampled on the thousands of years of culture that had already existed. They note the lack of comprehensive education on First Nations history and advocate for better education, promoting First Nations culture in prominent places, and supporting truth-telling and treaty through community involvement and amplifying First Peoples' voices.
Submission Transcription
I don’t know when Victoria was settled or even where the first settlements were built. I do know there was a thriving community here before colonisation. A community who worked with the environment to have an abundance of food, who knew about the medicines the trees and bushland could provide. There were communities who had their own intricate languages and knowings of the world around them. Colonisation took this away. Colonisation trampled on the thousands of years of culture that had been here. Colonisation continues to rob First People’s right to practice culture, to live in safety, to stand proud in who they are.
I was in school from 1995-2007 and feel like the only First Nation education I got was about Cathy Freeman when she was in the Olympics. I was very influenced by people around me who knew nothing about First Nation culture and their bigoted views of First People’s
Better education of the thriving population that was here before colonial settlement. Being aware of the science that First People’s have had for hundreds of thousands of years. Embracing First Nation language and culture and be proud to be a part of the oldest living cultures in the world. Flying into our international airport and knowing I have arrived on Aboriginal country because of the artworks and education when arriving home again. Stories about the heroes and also the everyday people that lived wonderful lived before colonial settlement.
Showing up to events, amplifying First People’s voices, having hard conversations with other non-First Nation Victorias, paying the rent.
Showing up to events, amplifying First People’s voices, having hard conversations with other non-First Nation Victorias, paying the rent.
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Yoorrook for Transformation
Third Interim Report: A five-volume comprehensive reform report presenting evidence and findings on systemic injustices, and specific recommendations for meaningful change to transform the future.
Truth Be Told
An official public record that documents First Peoples experiences since colonisation, preserves crucial testimonies for future generations and creates an enduring resource for education and understanding.
Recommendations for change
Yoorrook Justice Commission’s recommendations for truth-telling, justice, and systemic reform in Victoria.
