Navigating allyship through visual storytelling: A case study with Evolve Communities

In a recent webinar hosted by Evolve Communities , the topic of "How to be an Ally on Australia Day" dived into the challenging and divisive aspects surrounding January 26th. Aunty Munya Andrews , Carla Rogers , and Kate Kelleher led an insightful discussion, inviting participants to explore the origins of Australia Day and its impact on First Nations peoples. The session aimed to engage those curious, concerned, and committed to creating a kinder, more inclusive Australia.

"Big esso (thank you in Torres Strait Creole) to the deadly ? Indi Tansey for joining our Survival Day Webinar last week as our visual storyteller." – Aunty Munya

Challenges and Importance of Visual Storytelling: Addressing the complexities and sensitivities of Australia's history, the webinar required a respectful conversation. Emotions run high on this divisive topic, making it helpful to have a visual storyteller. Indi Dust 's live scribing became a powerful tool to navigate the intricacies, offering a map of understanding from historical origins to the challenges faced by First Nations people and guidance on being an ally.

^ Watch the summary video of the live drawing to see the story come to life.

During the webinar, visual storytelling played a pivotal role in conveying messages. Indi crafted a visual pathway through the canvas, addressing challenges such as the labelling of opposition to 'Australia Day' as 'woke.' The engaging and inclusive approach was warmly received, with the post-event summary timelapse garnering hundreds of views and positive feedback on social media.

"You captured the yarn so wonderfully." – Angie Perkins

Envisioning future use and value: Indi Dust sees visual storytelling as a medium to unravel nuanced narratives, fostering understanding and dialogue around challenging topics. The unique opportunity to explore and learn through visuals creates a shared canvas, offering a powerful avenue for meaningful discussions.

Takeaway for organisations and individuals: For those considering visual storytelling for events with sensitive topics, the Evolve Communities webinar serves as a great example. Visual representation, as demonstrated by Indi Dust, becomes a respectful map, fostering understanding and creating a shared canvas for meaningful dialogue—a transformative approach to navigating complex and sensitive discussions.

"Thank you Indi for your wonderful graphic at Evolve Communities webinar today. You captured the essence of the conversation perfectly." – Melody Edwardson

Here is my post-event summary describing the Indi Dust process.