First Nations youth craft painting as a statement to the Prime Minister

6 months ago

First Nations youth have sent a clear message to Anthony Albanese that the systems designed for them aren't delivering. The calls from young people in north-east Arnhem Land are being shared via a message stick and bark painting that will soon be shared in Parliament House.

Transcript

00:00My Gala and I are both learning from her.

00:07Here in North East Arnhem Land, Doris and her grandchildren Sienna and Savannah are sharing an ongoing tradition.

00:14I know it's time for them to do everything, what I'm saying or what I'm sharing.

00:19On specially prepared bark, the diamonds are created using a paintbrush made out of Sienna's hair.

00:25Diamonds means the cycle.

00:29The women say it represents the origin and transformation of fire.

00:33The quail lighting the fire in the dry grass and the man named Baru transforming into the crocodile through the flame.

00:41The diamonds are actually the back of the crocodile and when you look at a fire you'll see the diamonds when they go up.

00:52Everyone should be aware when a Gomach person speaks because we speak the flame.

01:02Sienna is using that voice to elevate the calls from First Nations youth who've stamped their thumbprints on the bark and have a collective statement for Canberra.

01:12We're strong. We want to be part of the decisions. And we're ready to lead.

01:19These young people are calling for on-country learning as well as collaborative school environments between teachers, elders, parents and students.

01:28As well as spaces for truth telling and healing. At the moment they say it's just not happening.

01:32Not enough housing. Not enough services for our community to build a new library for the girls to chill out with the friends, family, read a book.