Third annual Nulungu Reconciliation Lecture

Document Type

Media Release

Publication Date

Winter 16-8-2010

Publisher Name

The University of Notre Dame Australia, Broome Campus

Publication Place

Broome

Abstract

Reconciliation and the issues that shape contemporary Aboriginal and Australian experience was the focus of the recently-held, third annual, Nulungu Reconciliation Lecture, at The University of Notre Dame Australia’s Broome Campus.

This year’s key speaker, Professor Mick Dodson, a prominent and long-serving advocate of land rights and other issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, spoke about his personal experience as a member of the Yawuru peoples, the traditional Aboriginal owners of land and waters in Broome, Western Australia.

Using the theme of education for his lecture, Professor Dodson said a mutual understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians was crucial to achieving Reconciliation.

“I see the tangible steps towards Reconciliation as being; increased access to education, boosting life expectancy and closing the gap in employment outcomes,” said Professor Dodson.

Reflecting on the importance of positive self-image, Professor Dodson said the way Indigenous students saw themselves, and were seen by non-Indigenous people, could impact upon their education and employment.

“Learning, as I understand it, is a life-long process, you build on what you have learned and make it stronger,” he said.

Currently a visiting scholar at Notre Dame’s Broome Campus, Professor Dodson said he was honoured to attend the lecture and speak on the issues which had shaped his life and career.

Media Contact:

Andrea Barnard (+61) 8 9433 0610, Mob (+61) 0408 959 138

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