Seeking knowledge and being curious

Whilst many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are willing to share knowledge about their culture and history, it is important for you to take responsibility for your own learning if you want to build a genuine understanding of First Nations cultures.

It is also important to understand that some history can be highly traumatising for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to recount and that there is knowledge that cannot be shared by individuals for various cultural reasons. Be mindful of developing your learning carefully and respectfully. This will not be easy, but if you are respectful and allow yourself to be guided by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people the mistakes that you will inevitably make will be lessons you can learn from; opportunities to change your practice and build stronger connections with community.

There is a vast library of public information available on the internet, through social media, television and from local Community knowledge. You could speak to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community members and Elders or visit your local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled Services, local council or library. There are numerous local, statewide and national events you could attend and support. You may also want to consider speaking to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleague, or formally engaging an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mentor.

There are many different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and individuals, all with very different opinions and perspectives. It is important to take the time to listen to as many of these perspectives as you can, and to understand and connect with the lived experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, families and individuals.

This may be different from what you learnt at school or university. It may be different from what you have heard or read or been told by others. Notice these differences; they are valuable and highlight the richness and diversity in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Further information and resources

SNAICC is the national voice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children.

Indigenous Health Infonet offers comprehensive information about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and wellbeing.

The Healing Foundation provides information on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healing and trauma.

The preferred terminology used by Emerging Minds in our resources is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, as guided by our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social and Emotional Wellbeing National Consultancy Group.