Understanding 'culture'
The information in this chapter was provided by Kim Bridge, Western Australia
Culture has been described as 'ways of living built up by groups of human beings and transmitted from one generation to another'1.
Culture isn't static. People adapt to changing climate, new inventions, influences from other people and other cultures. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have lived on this land for an estimated 60,000 years. Over time, we have created and evolved highly structured cultural practices to suit changing circumstances.
Before the arrival of Europeans in 1788, our ways of living were designed to maintain good health, both for ourselves and for the Australian environment. Lifestyles were adapted to take into account many factors over the millennia but perhaps the most dramatic period of adaptation began in 1788.
You sometimes hear people say that 'real' Indigenous culture no longer exists because we no longer live like our ancestors, using traditional hunting implements and the like. This makes about as much sense as saying that English culture no longer exists because English people don't live as they did before the industrial revolution.
Indigenous culture has adapted dramatically to accommodate all that has been introduced into Australia since 1788. But it has proved to be a rich and resilient culture. It is a strong part of who we are as Indigenous people - and it is a strong part of the Australian identity.
It is important for all Australians to understand the essential features of Indigenous culture, including our special connection to the land and our commitment to family and community. So we can walk on this land together as friends and equals. So you can share our pride.
Understanding and respecting our culture also gives you a better sense of the impact on our communities when life-sustaining structures are ignored or broken, as they have been and continue to be.
Elements of traditional Indigenous culture, with spirit at the centre, creating deep connection with land and sea, sustained by a range of human practices.
©Kim Bridge
1http://www.Dictionary.com
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