Throughout Australian history, Local Governments have played a role in the wider systemic dispossession of Aboriginal people from their Country and culture and language. The intergenerational impact and resulting inequity and inequalities are experienced today.
Truth telling allows individuals and communities to acknowledge and confront past injustices, abuses, or conflicts. It brings hidden or denied facts to light, creating a shared understanding. Truth listening ensures that these truths are heard and validated, which is essential for those who have suffered to feel recognised and respected. An overview of Australian truth telling within is available on the ANTAR website.
Community led, place-based truth telling is a collaborative partnership. Acknowledging a community’s history can be an uncomfortable process, however when undertaken in a respectful and genuine way it can lead to better relationships. For Aboriginal people, this process can offer a healing space that actively redresses past injustices. Reconciliation Australia provides further information on Community Truth telling Pathways. Examples of local truth telling in Western Australia include Wadjemup | Rottnest Island.
Truth telling processes and acknowledgements may include official apologies; memorials; public art and storytelling; renaming, dual naming or co-naming places and landscapes; and acknowledging Stolen Generation Missions, Homes, War and Massacre sites.
