Many school children - and adults - will be familiar with the use of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander words and phrases such as ‘acknowledgement of country’ and ‘stolen generations’ but remain unclear of what they really mean. This book provides clear and simple explanations of such words and phrases and illuminates the way in which they are an integral part of our everyday communication in Australia. Readers will grow to understand how Aboriginal culture, one of the oldest living cultures on earth, is deeply connected with the land, and the importance of caring for Country.
This text can be used in a classroom setting to explore Australian history and geography, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Specific questions may be raised in relation to topics such as NAIDOC week, discrimination and racism, and Reconciliation, inviting further exploration. 'Nganga' provides a highlight of our First Nations People’s rich and complex history and culture and is an essential text for the classroom. The author, Aunty Fay Stewart-Muir, is an Elder and Traditional Owner of Boon Wurrung Country.