Get up, Stand up, Show up

Posted on Jan 19, 2022 By Jessica Staines

The theme for NAIDOC 2022 is Get Up, Show Up, Stand Up. We have spent some time reflecting on the theme and compiled a list of tips for educators to consider adopting to embrace the essence of what this theme means.

What can you do?

Subscribe to the Koori Mail and become informed and aware of current affairs and issues
Attend community events on the 26th of January and show your solidarity
Develop a policy on celebrations and watch the Koori Curriculums “Challenging the Culture of Celebrations “ webinar.
Plan ahead to release educators during key periods such as NAIDOC week to attend important events: NAIDOC Week events
Don’t shy away from having the hard conversations with parents and families regarding inclusive practices and Aboriginal programs.
Listen to First Nation voices. We recommend the Speaking Out and Educator Yarns podcast
Add Blak literature to your parent library such as “Australia Day” by Stan Grant
Start, revisit or revive your centre RAP
Engage in anti bias practices
Prioritise pedagogical discussions and debate regarding Aboriginal programs at team meetings.
Set team reflective readings. We recommend our new book Educator Yarns
Create opportunities through Elder and artist in residency programs
Highlight and prioritise Indigenous businesses in your services procurement practices
Plan and Budget for professional development experiences facilitated by First Nation leaders for you and your team
Don’t view Aboriginal programs as a project but take steps to ensure it continues to be embedded and privileged in your curriculum
Add Aboriginal programming priorities into educators KPIs and appraisals, doing this work is no longer an optional extra!
Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Be aware of your privilege and be open to unlearning and relearning.

Looking for more resources?
Check out our Embedding Aboriginal Perspectives Webinar

When embedding Aboriginal perspectives, educators can be overwhelmed and anxious as they're so worried about doing the wrong thing that it becomes debilitating. In this course, Jess wants to build your cultural confidence and capacity to find ways that you can meaningfully and respectfully include Aboriginal perspectives in your everyday programming curriculum.

When talking about embedding Aboriginal perspectives, it is a multifaceted approach. It is not just about creating a cultural corner but sprinkling Aboriginal artifacts and resources into the curriculum where the children can play and engage.

It's also about using children's interests as the vehicle for learning where you include an Aboriginal perspective in context to that genuine interest.