Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people experience a much higher rate of disadvantage than the wider Australian population. This disadvantage began with the dispossession of land, the displacement of people and the destruction of the right and freedom to practice and teach culture. This not-so-long-ago past has led to contemporary disadvantages such as trans- generational trauma, discrimination and lateral violence seeing our communities severely over-represented in every lower socio-economic area as well as the prison and health systems, leaving people disconnected and ostracised from the wider community.
To reverse this disadvantage, we must build platforms and places for Aboriginal communities to connect, repair and emerge strong again. Events and programs where young and old community members can connect with each other through Aboriginal culture, both traditional and contemporary, will help create a strong sense of personal and collective cultural identity. In turn, engaging with the wider community can see such platforms instill pride within the Aboriginal community as understanding and respect for Country is shared on Country.