Evidence Library

Yohann, originally from Brittany, France, now living on Bunurong Lands, reflects on the revival of Breton culture through music, education, live events and bilingual signage. They look forward to similar recognition and use of local languages occurring in Melbourne.

Lindsay Hammond shares his journey of discovering his Aboriginal heritage and his family’s history. Lindsay emphasises that the government needs to start listening to and working with Aboriginal people to fix issues, and highlights the importance of white Australia being educated about Aboriginal culture and history.

This submission is from a Wawula and Kuwarra person living on Djarra Country, they discuss what it is like to live off-country.

In this submission, a proud Yorta Yorta, Wurundjeri, and Gunditjmara man discusses his practice of creating traditional weapons and tools over the past 15 years, and how they adhere to cultural protocols. Despite following these cultural protocols and seeking permissions, they worry about legal repercussions, even though the Vic Human Rights Charter indicates Aboriginal people have a right to practice their culture.

Kara Graham is a a proud Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk woman. In this video submission, Kara discusses culture and language.

Dean Lusher is a Wamba Wemba man.

In this submission, Dean expresses profound sadness for his great-grandfather, Frederick (Fred) Moore (1865-1952) who he says must have felt it would be better to deny he was Aboriginal in order to protect his family and himself’. The submission details Dean’s sense of loss for the culture and connections he missed out on, and how lucky he felt when he learned of his Aboriginal heritage when he turned 50.

Dale Wandin is a Wurundjeri man.

This submission is a transcript of Dale speaking to the Yoorrook Justice Commission about his own experiences and observations, and includes topics such as cultural identity, education, data sovereignty and the native title system.

Aunty Carolyn Briggs is a Boonwurrung elder from Victoria. She is an expert in language and linguistics, and is recognised as a keeper of the history and genealogies of her people.

This submission is a transcript of Aunty Carolyn Briggs discussing her work in education, activism, government and commissions, language, fighting for justice, power and pride.

Bunjilwarra Koori Youth Alcohol & Drug Healing Service is a residential rehabilitation and healing service for Aboriginal young people aged between 16 and 25 years.

The topics covered in this submission include:

• Lack of housing
• Racism
• Education and truth telling
• Stereotypes and misconceptions
• Connection to culture, language and family
• Fatherhood
• The cycle of incarceration
• Importance of Bunjilwarra
• Sport
• Land injustice
• Final thoughts – recommendations for change

This submission is about the impact of growing up as a ward of the state, including experiences at Pirra Children’s Home, Winlaton Youth Centre.

It also discusses reparations for members of the Stolen Generations, depictions of Aboriginal people, racism and identity, discrimination in healthcare and services, and culture and healing.