Individual or Group Submission09/11/24

Anonymous 1159

Anonymous 1159 feels that the historical information provided about First Nations history and culture in Victoria's education system was insufficient and not readily available due to the lack of written language by the first tribes. They suggest that better access to journals and firsthand sources from the settlement periods would assist in understanding.

Topics: First Nations history in education, Shared understanding, Treaty

Submission Transcription

What do you know about the colonisation of Victoria and its impacts on First Peoples?

Developing an understanding of the events and impacts.

What has been your experience learning about First Nations history and culture in Victoria's education system? Do you feel it was comprehensive?

The information historically provided was insufficient to reflect the first nations history and culture. The current information is not readily available as the first tribes did not have a written language. For example currently trying to learn about the “welcome to country” ceremony that is currently promoted. Was this an actual event celebrated by all the first people tribes or something only a few tribes undertook or just a more modern event invented by the current tribes?

What changes would you like to see in Victoria to promote better understanding and respect for First Peoples cultures?

The ready access to journals and the first hand source material of witnesses and actors involved in the settlement periods. There is currently a perception that First Peoples are over exaggerating their culture. All people are to be treated equally and not defined by race.

In what ways do you think non-First Nations Victorians can contribute to the process of truth-telling and treaty?

All Victorians should be treated equally without any special privileges based on race. It is my understanding that the current treaty concept is trying to correct issues of 200 years ago, by providing a benefit to a certain class of people based on race. The concept of labelling Victorians as First and Non First is in itself divisive, we are all Victorians.

In what ways could First Peoples history and culture be promoted in Victoria?

All Victorians should be treated equally without any special privileges based on race. It is my understanding that the current treaty concept is trying to correct issues of 200 years ago, by providing a benefit to a certain class of people based on race. The concept of labelling Victorians as First and Non First is in itself divisive, we are all Victorians.

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