Thread by @IndigenousX

Good morning from Dharawal Country. I sat and listened to Country this morning to unravel the web of emotions that have been surging through my mind and body. I have been trying to find answers to heavy questions on a constant loop and it is exhausting

The emotional, mental, psychological, physical, cultural (so many more) loads that we as blak women are carrying can be debilitating at times. It is through sitting with Country and yarning with tiddas that I have been able to continue functioning

We are often praised for our resilience and ability to overcome challenges, but I need everyone to know that there are times when we need the space to be vulnerable so that we can break and release.

It has taken me a long time to understand that I cannot truly heal until I release my pain, regardless of how uncomfortable that makes me feel. I have only been able to do this with support mechanisms in place

This support is a mix of Western methods (therapy) and culture. This is my personal version of holistic support that balances my social and emotional wellbeing. I am well aware that this may not work for everybody.

I also need to acknowledge that I come from a place of privilege where I have access to therapy and culture, where many others don't. This is a critical issue that communities face across this country and needs to be corrected.

Many support services are not culturally safe for mob to access or simply do not exist in communities.

There is much to be healed in this country and the burden of this responsibility should not fall on the shoulders of First Nations people. In saying this, the amount of blak expertise that exists should be consulted and implemented across all spaces

How are you challenging systemic racism in your spaces? How are you elevating First Nations voices? Are you engaging in continuous learning by doing the work and seeking information out rather than overloading First Nations peoples with your questions?

Are your spaces culturally safe? Do you have a clear understanding of what cultural safety means in the context of mob? It does not mean hanging Aboriginal artwork in your offices and having an Acknowledgement of Country on your email signature

A commitment to deep engagement and understanding is required here. We are well beyond the tokenistic gestures and need to see genuine action with longevity