Can we stop demeaning Indigenous culture?
I used to sit on a Board with Warren Mundine and former Federal Liberal Leader Dr John Hewson (the Australian Indigenous Chamber of Commerce). I would also say Sky TV Australia is hardly a neutral party in these conversations.
i fundamentally disagree with Warren. and this is why: but first some context as to the meaning of welcome to country:
Welcome to Country ceremonies are deeply rooted in the indigenous cultures of Australia. These ceremonies serve as a profound acknowledgment of the traditional custodians of the land and a recognition of their enduring connection to it. Over time, Welcome to Country has evolved from a customary practice into a symbol of respect, reconciliation, and the preservation of indigenous heritage. Understanding the history of Welcome to Country ceremonies provides invaluable insight into the cultural significance and enduring legacy of these rituals.The practice of welcoming visitors to ancestral lands dates back thousands of years in indigenous Australian cultures. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the land is not merely a resource but a sacred entity intertwined with their identity, spirituality, and survival. Traditional custodians have always held profound respect for the land, viewing themselves as caretakers rather than owners. Welcoming outsiders onto their country was a gesture of hospitality, unity, and mutual understanding.With the arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century, indigenous Australians faced significant displacement, dispossession, and cultural suppression. The imposition of colonial rule disrupted traditional practices and eroded indigenous autonomy over their lands. Despite these challenges, the spirit of Welcome to Country endured, serving as a subtle yet resilient assertion of indigenous presence and resilience in the face of adversity.
In the latter half of the 20th century, Australia underwent a profound cultural shift characterized by a growing acknowledgment of the injustices inflicted upon indigenous peoples. The emergence of the reconciliation movement and the recognition of indigenous rights paved the way for a revival of traditional customs and ceremonies. Welcome to Country ceremonies regained prominence as a means of fostering cultural awareness, respect, and reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians.The formalization of Welcome to Country ceremonies gained momentum in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Governments, corporations, educational institutions, and community organizations increasingly incorporated these rituals into official proceedings, events, and gatherings. The inclusion of Welcome to Country became a symbolic gesture of respect for indigenous heritage and a commitment to reconciliation and diversity.
Today, Welcome to Country ceremonies play a vital role in Australian society, serving as a bridge between indigenous and non-indigenous communities. These ceremonies are conducted by traditional custodians or elder representatives, who deliver a heartfelt welcome, acknowledge ancestral spirits, and share cultural stories and traditions. Whether it be at government functions, festivals, sporting events, or educational institutions, Welcome to Country ceremonies symbolize a shared commitment to reconciliation, cultural understanding, and unity.Despite the progress made in acknowledging indigenous heritage, challenges persist in achieving genuine reconciliation and addressing systemic inequalities. Issues such as land rights, social justice, and cultural preservation remain central to the indigenous struggle for recognition and equality. While Welcome to Country ceremonies serve as a powerful symbol of respect and unity, they must be accompanied by meaningful action to address the root causes of indigenous disadvantage and marginalization.The history of Welcome to Country ceremonies reflects the resilience, strength, and cultural richness of indigenous Australian peoples. From ancient traditions to contemporary practices, these ceremonies embody the enduring spirit of reconciliation, respect, and unity. As Australia continues its journey towards genuine reconciliation, honoring and preserving the legacy of Welcome to Country ceremonies remains essential in fostering understanding, healing historical wounds, and building a more inclusive and equitable society.I think by sating there is too much of this devalues culture and does not strengthen it, demeans people of color and misses the opportunity to educate the rest of us of the rich history and traditions of a people who have spanned more than 40,000 years.