A Cultural Exchange

Indigenous people worldwide suffer from a legacy of oppression that devastated their lands, resources and culture and stripped them of their heritage. The effects of this tragedy mark indigenous children today. Most live in poverty and lack opportunity. They also struggle with identity—finding it difficult to balance the demands of mainstream society and their own cultures. There are exceptions, however, and Michael is one such exception.

Michael's Story

Michael is a lively 15-year old with a gentle sense of humor. His quiet demeanor and understated self-possession contrasts with his half-brother Jake’s gregarious, outgoing nature. Jake has grown up in mainstream society with a strong family life that has given him a good grounding. Michael has lived only in a remote indigenous community on Mornington Island off the far north coast of Australia. Life on Mornington Island has given Michael a rich inheritance, including hunting, dancing and language skills that Jake could not acquire while living in suburban Australia. Michael is an excellent hunter who can cut a spear from a tree and use it to lance fish in the tropical seas around his home. Like most Aboriginal people who live a traditional life, he speaks several native languages. Michael is a very good dancer and knows many of the ancient dances of his people. He is a member of the Woomera dance group, a troupe that travels throughout the world to perform.

Despite Michael’s rich cultural background, he lacks the skills to survive in modern Australia. People like Caroline Munns, Jake’s indigenous foster mother, believe Aboriginals need to learn how to survive in mainstream society. Their ancient skills were perfectly suited to their traditional way of life and are not as useful for life in a big city. Aboriginals must try to adapt while also maintaining their authenticity.

When Michael came to live with his half-brother, Jake, he found himself at a disadvantage. His skills as a dancer and hunter were not of much value in at high school. He had some catching up to do—both in and out of the classroom. But he learned fast, particularly from his brother. Like any young teenage boy, Jake is interested in girls, sport and music and was eager to demonstrate his know how and skills to his big brother who was just as keen to learn. Jake taught Michael all he needed to know about bowling, basketball and socializing with his mates at school.

What's Next for Michael?

Michael faces challenges similar to most indigenous youth who struggle to maintain their cultural identity while living in the mainstream world. He is fortunate to have a supportive environment to comfort him when he feels isolated.

Although Michael is finding that school is more demanding in Canberra than on Mornington Island, he is studying hard and making strides. He is eager to improve his grades and gain the type of skills that will enable him to get a good job. As a result, he now has more choices in life.

What Can You Do?

Begin by learning more. Indigenous peoples around the world face unique challenges in trying to preserve their cultural heritage while adapting to the demands of modern life. Most live in poverty and face discrimination. The UN Convention on the Rights of a Child includes special protections for indigenous people so they may practice and enjoy their traditions.

The UN works to protect the rights of indigenous peoples. There is a Working group on Indigenous Populations, a Special Rapporteur and the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. Furthermore, UN agencies take special notice of the unique needs of indigenous peoples when implementing their programs.

There are many ways to become involved. Check out the sites of other organizations working for indigenous rights and discover how you can become a part of the solution.

To learn more about the situation in Australia visit these sites: The Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and the Aboriginal Social Justice Commission that work to help indigenous people and children.