The online platform, ‘Deadly and Proud’, shares tales of strength and resilience from Aboriginal cultures and communities across the state, as well as live updates on the path to treaty.
Via an interactive map, Greater Shepparton residents can deep-dive into local Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung history - from cultural land burning practices to the first mass strike of Aboriginal people at the Cummeragunja walk-off.
Campaign director and Yorta Yorta and Wurundjeri man Tony Briggs said the platform gave Victorians the opportunity to share in the pride of Aboriginal people.
“Stories told through this campaign, highlight the resilience of our people to survive andthrive in Victoria, the unique practices of our cultures and our strong connection to countryand community,” he said.
“All Victorians can and should be proud of what we have in Victoria.
“Our state’s history is shared, as is our future.”
The campaign builds on the government's Deadly Questions campaign launched in 2018, to create a space for discussion with Aboriginal Victorians.
Renowned musician and Gunditjmara and Bundjalung man Archie Roach is one of the participating ‘Deadly and Proud’ storytellers.
He said the campaign opened up a space for dialogue with the community as the discussion towards treaty progressed in Victoria.
Victoria is the first state or territory in Australia to commit to negotiating treaty with its First Peoples.
“Country is sacred, and we want all Victorians to understand why,” Mr Roach said.
“The rich history of this land is something everyone can be proud of, and a treaty is an integral step in that journey.
“For me, being deadly and proud means being the best I can be.
“To be proud of who I am, of where I've been and what I've gone through to get to this place. To be proud of my people, my country and treaty.”
Head to deadlyandproud.com.au to explore the interactive map.
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