KEEP THE FIRE BURNING! BLAK, LOUD AND PROUD 

Alice YoungFrontPage, News, Pastor

In our relationship with Indigenous Australians, how can we practice the ‘love for neighbour’ Jesus invites us to? Especially after Australia’s failed Indigenous Voice to Parliament in October 14, 2023. In my view, our way forward as Australians together is now quite unclear. 

Do you sense this year’s NAIDOC theme “Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud” is a declaration for Indigenous people to be heard, to have a voice to the nation? The National NAIDOC Committee Co-Chair, Steven Satour, has written, 

“’Blak, Loud, and Proud’ encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world. This theme calls for a reclamation of our narratives, an amplification of our voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality.” [1] 

It is positive our nation has times such as NAIDOC each year to celebrate our First Nations Peoples. It is positive organisations and meetings acknowledge the Indigenous country we gather on. It is positive schools teach First Nations stories, cultures and histories. I wonder if we are in a tension point now. Are mainstream Australians up for further change? How will indigenous Australians respond to the stalled pace and degree of change? Like I said, the way forward nationally is unclear, at least to me. 

Meanwhile, how can we practice ‘love for neighbour’ with Indigenous Australians? I believe expressing love through action is the best way. Why not take opportunity to join in Aboriginal celebrations, such as the NAIDOC service or family funday [2]. Listen carefully to understand indigenous people. I think we do this best when we have relationships with Aboriginal people. Have an orientation of justice and mercy for Indigenous people as you consider their concerns. 

In Him, 

Jason 

Photo: https://www.naidoc.org.au/

[1] 2024 NAIDOC week theme – ‘Keep the fire burning! Blak, loud and proud’ | NAIDOC 

[2] NAIDOC March and Family Fun Day | NAIDOC (naidocsa.com.au)