Dja Dja Wurrung man Dr Aleryk Fricker reflects on the pain he still feels over choosing not to disclose his Aboriginal identity in high school, so that he could avoid facing racism.
"So I chose not to identify, just so I could take a break from the constant racism that I experienced. As a white-passing Aboriginal student towards the end of my secondary schooling and through changing schools, I chose not to identify in my new setting. Even today, I look back on this time with such sorrow."
Dja Dja Wurrung man Dr Aleryk Fricker reflects on the pain he still feels over choosing not to disclose his Aboriginal identity in high school, so that he could avoid facing racism.
In its final month, Yoorrook will elevate the truths shared by First Peoples through “First the talk. Now the walk.”
Keep an eye out for these powerful truths in some of Victoria’s key cultural institutions and visit the Yoorrook website for more.
We can't change the truth of our past, but by accepting and understanding it, we can walk forward together to a better shared future. For First Peoples and all Victorians.
First the talk. Now the walk.
The true path forward starts here.
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Reports and Recommendations
Read the official reports and recommendations of the Yoorrook Justice Commission.
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.
