This one is important. #BlackLivesMatter
Summary: Black Lives Matter is a global movement advocating for racial justice and equality. Supporting it means actively working to dismantle systemic racism and creating a more inclusive society.
So much has happened —and is still happening— since we last shared anything here. There were devastating bushfires in Australia, a global pandemic, and a long overdue escalation of the Black Lives Matter human rights movement. It’s this last one that has prompted us to examine our place in the systemic racism that exists, and to seek out actions we can take to make meaningful change.
For us, these have included:
- Signing online petitions
- Donating to Djirra (Aboriginal women’s support organisation) and Paying the Rent in Victoria
- Adding an Acknowledgement of Country to this site
- Educating ourselves on Indigenous culture and history in Australia through books, films, and podcasts, especially those created by or with Aboriginal or Torres Straight Islander people. If you aren’t sure where to start, you might try the ‘Indigenous’ episode of You Can’t Ask That (20mins), for an insight into what life is like as an Indigenous Australian.
This topic can feel overwhelming but we’ve found it helpful to start with small steps —whatever we can do right now, today— and seek advice on what else we can do or keep in mind as we move forward.
Producing Paradise acknowledges the Wurundjeri and Boonwurrung people of the Kulin nation, and the Ngunnawal people as the Traditional Owners of the lands on which the creators of this website live, work, write and play.
We also acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture.
We recognise that sovereignty over the land has never been ceded, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.