One of the most common questions we receive is, "Who are the Traditional Owners, and where can we find them?" Before we dive into the answer, let's reflect on why you want to connect with a local Elder in the first place.
First, it's essential to understand who an Elder is. Elders are respected leaders within Aboriginal communities who have gained significant knowledge and wisdom through their life experiences. They play a crucial role in maintaining cultural traditions, providing guidance, and supporting their community.
When seeking to connect with the Aboriginal community, it's important to remember that different roles require different expertise:
- Bushtucker gardens:Consult with a horticulturalist or local nursery specializing in native plants and their traditional uses.
- Storytelling, dance, or didgeridoo performance:Reach out to incursion providers who offer cultural experiences tailored for children.
- Embedding Aboriginal perspectives in your program:Work with an Aboriginal early childhood consultant who can provide guidance on respectfully incorporating Aboriginal knowledge and practices.
- Aboriginal language:Engage with a language custodian who is recognized by their community as a knowledge holder and teacher of their traditional language.
Elders are not a one-stop-shop or free early childhood advisors. They are community leaders who support families and participate in decision-making processes that impact their community.
Some key cultural roles include:
- Language Custodians:Recognised authorities on Aboriginal languages who provide permission and guidance on using language respectfully.
- Traditional Knowledge Holders: Elders or community members with specialized knowledge of cultural practices, stories, art, etc. who share this with others.
- Cultural Consultants:Aboriginal people who advise on culturally appropriate protocols, practices and perspectives to inform education and other sectors.
- Community Liaisons: Facilitators who bridge communication and partnerships between Aboriginal communities and external organisations.
When reaching out, be clear about what you need and do your research first. If you require more in-depth support, consider budgeting for mentoring, coaching, or professional development.
Engaging with Elders may involve navigating transport issues, payment methods, and communication protocols. Be patient and respect the community's priorities.
Other ways to connect with the community include:
- Attending community events
- Joining consultative group meetings (e.g., local AECG or LAECG)
- Registering for a Reconciliation Action Plan on the Narragunnawali website
- Identifying Aboriginal communities in your area
For more information, access our "Top Questions Answered Pre-Recorded Webinar"
Come along to our live webinar "Building Community Connections"
