International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is 6 August

International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is commemorated each year on 9 August in recognition of the first meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. The day is an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous Peoples globally, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and to raise awareness of their ongoing struggles for self-determination and sovereignty.

Globally, Indigenous Peoples speak an overwhelming majority of the world’s estimated 7000 languages and represent 5000 different cultures. Australia is home to more than 780 Indigenous languages grouped into 250 language families that connect people to Country, culture and ancestors. However, colonisation and policies of assimilation have severely affected the practice and continuation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages – now only 177 of Australia’s First Languages are still being spoken or used.

On 9 August, and every day, we encourage you to learn more about the Indigenous Peoples of your countries and the many ways that Indigenous Peoples strive to protect language, culture, kin, and Country. For example, if you’d like to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups in your area, you can find and connect with your local language centre or program. If you’re in Sydney, you can check out Moogahlin, Muru Mittigar, or other First Nations organisations that work every day to keep culture alive. 

You can also learn more about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages by checking out the ABC Indigenous Mother Tongue video series; First Languages Australia’s Language Legends videos; or the 50 Words Project, which allows you to listen to words in Indigenous languages from across the continent.

Get your copy of BlakOut Issue 3!

SUPRA’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Network recently launched issue three of BlakOut: An Anthology of First Nations Students’ Scholarship, which features the work of eight budding First Nations scholars, including rich reflections on language revitalisation as a path to reclaiming and reaffirming belonging.

You can download BlakOut Issue 3, or you can order a free print copy to your home. Get your copy!