What can you do to help with the ongoing journey of reconciliation? Stacy Swanton (she/her), a Gamilaraay woman and Diversity, Belonging, Inclusivity and Equity Cadet at the College of Engineering, Computing and Cybernetics shares her thoughts on this years’ Reconciliation Week theme ‘Now more than ever’.
Reconciliation Week is a time for reflection on how far we have come and how much further we must go to foster understanding and awareness between our indigenous and non-indigenous people. Reconciliation is not just a single policy or movement, it is a journey that requires people to actively participate in and support our indigenous cultures and values.
For me, the theme “Now more than ever” resonates profoundly. It signifies a call to action, a reminder that even in the face of adversity or the temptation to look away, we must remain unwavering in our commitment to supporting and defending the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. A time when our actions carry even greater significance, as the challenges and obstacles faced by Indigenous communities persist and, in some cases, intensify.
“Now more than ever, the work continues. In treaty-making, in truth-telling, in understanding our history, in education, and in tackling racism. We need connection. We need respect. We need action. And we need change. ” – Reconciliation Australia
So, what can you do to contribute to the ongoing journey of reconciliation? Stacy says one crucial step is to confront and challenge racism wherever you encounter it. Whether it is in your workplaces, communities, or broader society, be vigilant in calling out discrimination and prejudice, and actively work towards creating environments of inclusivity and respect.
Additionally, you can play a vital role in amplifying the voices of Indigenous peoples across our nation. This means actively listening to our stories, experiences, and perspectives, and using your platforms to elevate our voices and advocate for our rights.
Indigenous Futurisms and AI
Dr Ambelin Kwaymullina is a 2023-24 Cybernetic Imagination Resident at the ANU School of Cybernetics. Ambelin comes from the Palyku people of the eastern Pilbara region of Western Australia.
During her time as a Cybernetic Imagination Resident Ambelin wanted to amplify Indigenous Futurisms a term first coined by Anishinaabe academic Grace Dillon. Learn more about Indigenous Futurisms here.
“My project was to apply Indigenous futurist thinking to what is sometimes termed ‘artificial’ intelligence through the medium of visual art (acrylic on canvas). I began with a point that has been made by Indigenous peoples the world over – that in Indigenous systems, there is probably not such a thing as ‘artificial’ intelligence.” -Ambelin Kwaymullina
The stunning series of five acrylic on canvas paintings are now on display at the School of Cybernetics on Ngunnawal and Ngambri Country, on Level 3 of the award-winning Birch Building, ANU campus, Canberra, until December 2024.
Reconciliation Week serves as a powerful reminder of the work that lies ahead of us and the importance of collective action in building a more inclusive and equitable society. Now more than ever, let us stand together in solidarity, committed to the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Numerous resources are available to support individuals and organisations in their journey towards reconciliation.
Online
- Reconciliation Australia
- Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies
- Reconciliation Action Plan | Australian National University
Books
- Flock edited by Ellen Van Neerven
- Living on Stolen Land by Ambelin Kwaymullina
- Born into This by Adam Thompson
- Black and Blue by Veronica Gorrie
- Hello and Welcome by Greg Dreise
Learn more about National Reconciliation Week at ANU.
Learn about Diversity and Inclusion.