NAIDOC Week theme ‘For Our Elders’ explored in Yarramundi Lecture
Western Sydney University was proud to host its annual Yarramundi Lecture exploring the 2023 NAIDOC theme ‘For Our Elders’ on Tuesday, 4 July.
The event, which is central to the University’s longstanding commitment to its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, celebrates Indigenous history, culture and achievements.
Held at Western Sydney University’s Parramatta South campus, this year’s event brought together students, staff and members of the community to discuss issues of local and national importance.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Indigenous Leadership, Professor Michelle Trudgett said the panel consisted of members of Western’s Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee.
The esteemed members included Aunty Cindy Laws, Aunty Fran Bodkin, Uncle Chris Tobin and Aunty Rasme Prior, as well as Aunty Rayna St Julian.
“The panel at this year’s Yarramundi Lecture shared stories from the heart, reflecting on their significant life experiences and personal matters of importance,” said Professor Trudgett.
“The forum encouraged robust discussion from prominent Indigenous leaders who generously shared their insights, in the hope to inform the community on how we can better embrace Indigenous knowledge.”
Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost Clare Pollock opened the event, and the closing student address was given by Kayden Edwards.
Aunty Rasme Prior, Elder and Member of the Indigenous Elder Advisory Committee of Western Sydney University said she was honoured to present at the 25th Yarramundi Lecture alongside esteemed Elders of Western’s Indigenous Elders Advisory Committee.
“The Yarramundi Lecture is an important forum where we are empowered to discuss issues of importance and celebrate our cultural successes. The lecture was established out of respect and recognition of First Nations People and is named after Darug chief Yarramundi who was a traditional Elder of the Boorooberongal clan,” said Aunty Rasme.
“The event allowed me to reflect on the strong legacy my Elders have passed on through intergenerational sharing of cultural protocols, activism, and achievement in very challenging times. It also grounded me in the realisation that there is still a long way to go, yet with the new generations of Indigenous graduates and leaders I am very hopeful for the future. As we move towards a referendum there is no time more urgent to sit and listen to Elders, so this was a fantastic event.”
The University has a longstanding commitment to supporting Indigenous people’s aspirations, including across education, research, and as future leaders.
Read more about Western Sydney University’s Indigenous Strategy 2020-2025 at the University’s Indigenous Engagement and Education web page (opens in a new window).
ENDS
7 July 2023
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
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