Can more ethical histories be written about early colonial expeditions? A new project seeks to do just that
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Mercoledì, Febbraio 14, 2024
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The name of the Aboriginal man in this article was how he was referred to, and his relative has requested we honour this name.
Key Points:
- The name of the Aboriginal man in this article was how he was referred to, and his relative has requested we honour this name.
- Truth-telling is at the heart of a new research project we are currently leading that re-examines the legacy of the Hann Expedition, which travelled Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula in 1872.
- Our project seeks to rewrite this period of history – and others – to honour the voices and experiences of Aboriginal people whose contributions to colonial-era expeditions have long been overlooked.
- Jerry was derogatorily referred to as “the blackboy”, and his important role in the expedition has never been fully acknowledged.
Descendants leading research
- Our research team includes descendants of the 1872 expedition, such as the project lead and co-author, Peter Taylor (a descendant of Norman Taylor’s), and co-researcher and co-author Cameo Dalley (a great-granddaughter of Tate’s).
- As descendants, each of us has inherited different family narratives about what took place on the expedition, and whose contributions were central.
- Further funding will support our research and the involvement of Traditional Owners along the expedition route, including Olkala, Kuku Yalanji, Lama Lama and Guugu Yimithirr people.
- The united commitment of the descendants and their detailed knowledge of this expedition will be incredibly valuable in working with Elders across the cape who still grieve about their own history.
Why truth-telling is needed in Australia
- Truth-telling was a vital component of the Uluru Statement from the Heart signed by over 200 Indigenous delegates from around Australia.
- However, the failed referendum on a Voice to Parliament last year arguably demonstrated an apathy towards such processes at a national level.
Nicole Huxley is affiliated with North QLD Land Council, Jumbun Limited, Ngrragoonda RNTBC Aboriginal Corporation, Joint Coordinating Committee Member Qld - DSDSATSIP. Cameo Dalley and Peter Taylor do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.