How misconceptions overshadow ‘Blak joy’ and how to be a better ally

First Nations women on the unfair trauma depiction and how non-Indigenous Australians can better carry the weight of change.

By Kate Kachor

Culture

First Nations women on the unfair trauma depiction and how non-Indigenous Australians can better carry the weight of change.

By Kate Kachor

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Indigenous Australians are often asked to define and dissect their identities through trauma, yet their existence is the same as everyone else’s – laughter, love and joy.

This was one of the key messages shared during the 2023 Future Women International Women’s Day First Nations dinner and panel in Sydney.

As well as sharing their thoughts on Blak joy, the panel were asked to share the advice they would give to non-Indigenous Ausrtalians about how to be “a good ally”.

“I think it’s not just about showing up to events like this, it’s about what is that next step that you’re also taking the weight of it, the weight of the change?” Denning-Orman said.