Statement of Recognition & Intention

The Earth Funerals Project recognises that the First Australian Peoples have been living sustainably on this continent for at least 65,000 years - making them the oldest living culture on the planet. We recognise their roles as the first artists, astronomers, engineers, chemists, land managers, field naturalists, herbalists and healers, musicians and story-tellers of this land. We acknowledge their perception of the immensity of time, and their ability to conceive the world as a whole place. We recognise their understanding of the intimate connection between scientific knowledge systems, culture, and health and wellbeing. 

We recognise that colonisation began with the arrival of the First Fleet from Britain in 1788. We recognise that impacts of colonisation continue today and include despoiled landscapes and generationally traumatised First Peoples. We recognise that the First Peoples of Australia are rediscovering and reconnecting with their culture and identity. 

We recognise that the Western mind has steadfastly and disrespectfully blinded itself to the significance of the relationship of the First Peoples with the land. Western knowledge is fragmented in comparison to the deep and complex connectedness between people, spirit and place nurtured by First Peoples. Western approaches have systematically partitioned science, land management, and ecology; Indigenous knowledge systems integrate them. 

We recognise that without acknowledgement of our compromised consciousness, borne of ingrained racism embedded in current policies, processes and structures, there will be no healing. We recognise that stereotypes can be used to espouse convenient mistruths - such as that urban-dwelling Aboriginal people are ‘not real Aboriginals’. We recognise that ignorance can be used as a mechanism for avoiding responsibility.

We recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people make up hundreds of diverse and unique cultures where each has its own language, protocols and connection to country. These cultures are shifting, complex and resilient in nature and many are evolving into vibrant, contemporary forms - Aboriginal culture is reemerging. We recognise that continuing high culture, creation stories, language and songs have the potential to heal people and the land.

We acknowledge the significance of the Mabo decision in 1992 voiding the terra nullius claim. We recognise the Rudd government apology in 2008 as a foundation for conciliation. We recognise the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart as the contemporary position of the First Australian Peoples.  

We recognise that involvement of the First Australians is important to the Earth Funerals Mission, and that relationships are at the heart of, and key to, cross cultural collaboration. We understand the need for respect and attentive listening in collaborating with each unique community.