In the language of my people, the Yalangi people of Far North Queensland, “Yalanda” is a greeting to all and in the spirit of this year’s theme, Heal Country we celebrate NAIDOC 2021.
Heal Country talks to the importance of our culture and our connection to Bubu (Land). It also talks to a wider aspiration, to be inclusive of all in a true form of Reconciliation. It talks to an aspiration to heal Australia, heal our environment, and heal the culture of who we are as Australians.
Heal Country speaks to us all.
We are who we are because of community. It is through our commitment to community that we gain strength and purpose. Throughout NAIDOC Week and beyond we celebrate the best of our peoples and our communities.
It is my dream that in embracing inclusivity we celebrate who we are; Black, White, and Rainbow. By walking together with compassion and empathy, we can Heal Country.
Gary Oliver is a Kuku Yalangi Traditional Owner and social commentator.
