Heritage and Identity

Question 1

What is ‘Identity’?

Answer 1

The belief and acceptance of one’s self which is determined by their culture.

Question 2

What is ‘Spirituality’?

Answer 2

It is the mental, emotional, psychological, and most importantly spiritual connection of Aboriginal people to each other and to Country.

Question 3

What is ‘Autonomy’?

Answer 3

It is the ability for Aboriginal people to be an individual entity/community that is able to have control over their own policies, future development, and community relations.

Question 4

What is ‘Cultural Affirmation’?

Answer 4

The guidelines and practice of culture

Question 5

What is ‘Language’?

Answer 5

The communication and expressions of Aboriginal communities that allow them to have individuality with other language groups and tribes. Their language is significantly tied to their culture and the definition of who they are within their culture.

Question 6

What is ‘Cultural reclamation/maintenance’?

Answer 6

Establishing programs that support contemporary Aboriginal Community action that supports the re-establishment of a wide variety of social and cultural activities that express their unique nature, knowledge, understanding and ethics.

Question 7

What are some traditional ways Aboriginal people express their Heritage + Identity?

Answer 7

> Dreaming
> Totems
> Dance
> Language
> Ceremonies/Rituals

Question 8

What is the importance of regaining access to Country to Abl. peoples heritage + Identity?

Answer 8

> Continuous Connection
> Traditions / Rituals / Keeping culture 'alive'
> Mental Health
> Medicinal purposes
> Diet / tools / Weapons / shelter
> Who they are / Self-Purpose
> Roles + Responsibilities
> 'Rights' - ownership of land.
> Sharing knowledge of culture to next gen.

Question 9

What are some examples of Abl. People regaining their land and the significant contribution to Heritage + Identity?

Answer 9

> UOW Shoalhaven Campus
> Booderee National Park
> Mabo [1990's]
> Tent Embassy [1970's]
> Freedom Rides [1960's]

Question 10

What is the Importance of Heritage + Identity to Abl. Peoples including its impact on Socio-Economic status?

Answer 10

> 'Who we are'
> Mob - Language group/Family/ Kinship
> Totems
> Recognition of Culture + People [Oldest Culture in the world]
>