How to minimise harm when talking about First Peoples
The experiences, rights and self-determination of First Peoples are issues of great importance to all of us.
Summary
- Discussions about issues that disproportionately affect First Peoples can cause harm.
- It is important to understand how to engage in discussions about First Peoples issues to avoid causing harm.
- Listening to First Peoples and centring their experiences can help reduce harm.
The terms used throughout this document to refer to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are used interchangeably to acknowledge the diversity of identities, communities, and preferences across Australia. These terms are not intended to be limiting, and individuals may choose to self-identify in ways that differ from the terminology used here.
In a democracy, it’s important that people can express their opinions on key issues, especially those of great national importance. The experiences, rights and self-determination of First Peoples are issues of great importance to all of us. However, it’s crucial that these conversations are approached in a way that doesn’t cause harm, whether we are talking about race and racism or any conversations about First Peoples. This is particularly important when discussing issues that directly affect First Peoples, such as Indigenous rights, recognition, or policy reform.
This document provides practical tips to help you engage in conversations about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, cultures and rights with self-awareness and respect in ways that minimise harm.
Warning
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are warned that the following timeline contains names of deceased persons.
Please note, the following section uses culturally inappropriate terms that have contributed to the historical erasure of hundreds of distinct Nations, languages and cultures that make up the lands now known as 'Australia'. Terminology can change over time, and it is best practice to find out what the preferred term is from the respective Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander group or individual you are referring to.
This resource was adapted from work originally written by Luke Pearson of IndigenousX. We acknowledge and thank Luke Pearson and IndigenousX for the original work and contribution that informed the development of this resource.
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How to minimise harm when talking about First Peoples
Learn more about the experiences, rights and self-determination of First Peoples.