First Nations Speaker Series

The First Nations Speaker Series (FNSS) commenced in 2021 and provides a platform for Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander researchers, authors, artists, professionals, and curators to share ideas about history, heritage and culture. The series facilitates holistic, community-led, and thought-provoking discussions, and aims to facilitate cross-sector dialogue, bridging the gap between industry, academia, and cultural institutions.

The FNSS acknowledges the historical silencing of injustices and the ongoing impacts of colonisation on First Nations people. It recognises that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and heritages are sources of community strength and resilience, and that strong connections to families, culture and Country are essential to wellbeing.

The Series supports truth-telling to provide a fuller and more accurate account of Australia’s history, recognising the strength and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It employs trauma-informed, strengths-based approaches that support culturally informed communication and participation, while fostering a culturally safe space that centres First Nations peoples in the decision-making processes.

The First Nations Speaker Series is co-presented by GML Heritage, Museums of History NSW and The University of Sydney.

Coming up on Thursday 10 April is Mungari: Curators In-Conversation at the Chau Chak Wing Museum.

 

Catch up on previous talks

Previous speakers have included Jason Ardler, Professor John Maynard, Tony Albert, Gawaian Bodkin-Andrews, Wayne Brennan, Professor Brenda L Croft, Blak Douglas, Dennis Golding, Dr Danièle Hromek, Dr Terri Janke, Dr Virginia Keft, Dr Leah Lui-Chivizhe, Alison Page, Matt Poll, Nathan mudyi Sentance, Dr Raymond Kelly, Aunty Michelle Perry, Reuben Mellor, Yanada Hepi Te Huia, Hayden Walsh and Peter White.

Watch previous talks in the First Nations Speaker Series online.