Just So Stories

Welcome to NAIDOC at Just So Stories – coming up – a week of reviews and resources to celebrate this year’s 50th anniversary.

Quotes attributable to National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair, Aunty (Professor) Lynette Riley:

“Over the decades, NAIDOC Week has grown into a powerful national celebration that continues to honour and elevate Indigenous voices, culture and resilience 50 years on.

“Guided by the wisdom of our Elders and the groundwork laid by our forebears, each NAIDOC Week reinforces our vision for an Australia where Indigenous voices are not only heard but lead the way.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we look toward the next 50 years of NAIDOC Week celebrations, with excitement and confidence, while ensuring that NAIDOC remains a movement grounded in community-led vision and integrity.

Ancestral Lines

Jeremy Morgan Worrall

Ancestral Lines is a visual representation of the lines and ties that follow a generation and the songs that come with it. 

When I think of the next generation I think towards my Ancestor Lucy Wright, Enoch Wright, Nonie Wright, all the way from my Nanna Audrie to my Mother Vanessa. 

When I look back at my mob it helps me see towards the future, it gives me hope and strength knowing what my mob have survived through and accomplished amid adversity. 

Each person in the painting depicts a series of lines akin to songlines, that represent what they know, who they were and what they have passed on, the first being that of lore (interpretive), hunting, protecting, and tracking, the second of care, weaving, fishing, and love. 

The third is when we see the two combine into one, and the last two take unfinished elements of them all, to show the passing down of knowledge and care. 

Above them is the essence of the land they live and protect/care for. It is a depiction of my home the cold skies of Tenterfield with the swirling clouds and giant moon, a place around the fire is where the next Generation find their strength, vision and legacy.

From National Aborigines’ Day to NAIDOC Week

Don’t forget to search this blog using NAIDOC and related terms such as First Nations for reviews and resources. Access more resources from NAIDOC.org