For many people, their only exposure to Australian Aboriginal culture comes from what they see in the media. While there are some great films, TV shows, and books that showcase Aboriginal culture, there is so much more to learn! If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge of Aboriginal culture, read on for five ways to do it. You can also adopt the Children’s Ground approach of working closely alongside First Nations communities for implementing real and lasting change.
1. Read Books and Watch Films Written or Directed by Aboriginal Australians
If you want to learn about a culture, one of the best ways to do it is to consume media created by people from that culture. There are plenty of great books and films written or directed by Aboriginal Australians that can give you a deeper understanding of what it’s like to be Aboriginal in Australia. Some examples include Rabbit-Proof Fence, Walkabout, and We Don’t Need a Map.
2. Visit an Aboriginal Cultural Centre
There are several Aboriginal cultural centres around Australia that are open to the public. These centres are a great way to learn about Aboriginal history and culture through interactive exhibits, tours, and events. Many of them also have cafes or restaurants where you can try traditional Aboriginal foods.
3. Attend an Indigenous Australian Art Show
Australian Aboriginal art is world-renowned for its beauty and uniqueness. If you have the opportunity to attend an art show featuring Indigenous Australian artists, we highly recommend it! Not only will you get to see some amazing art, but you’ll also learn about the stories and cultures that inspired it.
4. Take an Online Course
If you can’t make it to Australia, don’t worry – there are still plenty of ways to learn about Aboriginal culture from the comfort of your own home! One great option is to take an online course offered by an Aboriginal educational institution such as Batchelor Institute or AIATSIS.
5. Go on a Guided Tour Led by an Indigenous Australian
There are several companies that offer guided tours of Australia led by Indigenous Australians. This is a great way to learn about the country’s history and culture while also getting a first-hand look at some of its most beautiful landscapes.
Learning about other cultures is a rewarding experience that can help us become more well-rounded global citizens. If you’re interested in learning more about Australian Aboriginal culture, we hope this list has given you some ideas of where to start!