All staff and students at Griffith should be aware of resources available so that they are more informed about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander matters. The University recommends you explore the general information in the Share Our Pride website developed by Reconciliation Australia.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Council of Elders
Griffith University recognises the intellectual, scholarly and cultural contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders who have consistently worked with political, education, social and spiritual leaders. The Elders foster a greater understanding of Indigenous issues and enhance the implementation of policies and programs based on principles of social justice and reconciliation.
The Elders help to build a strong link between Indigenous and non-Indigenous agencies and representatives working together to address a myriad of concerns that have affected both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. This approach helps to create a more supportive and cooperative environment and results in significant transformations in the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, children, youth and communities.
Aunty Delmae Barton was appointed Elder-in-Residence at Griffith University in 2005, and Uncle Graham Dillon was also appointed to this role in 2009. They work alongside community Elders including Uncle Reg Knox, Aunty Roz Graham, Aunty Jianna Richardson, Aunty Anne Chapman and Uncle Thomas Sebasio.
In 2010, the Elders-in-Residence, together with the other community Elders, formalised their network of mentors and advisors and created the Griffith University Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Council of Elders. This Council aims to work closely with staff and students of the University to help make Griffith a place that is culturally safe and progressive and encouraging partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people at Griffith and in the wider community. By working together with students and staff the Council has been able to position Griffith as a place that encourages Indigenous people to study and work at the University in the spirit of partnership, reconciliation and respect. Griffith is very proud that the University's elders have established this Council of Elders. The Council will work with the University to provide strategic advice on pertinent matters.
Protocols
Griffith University is committed to a diverse population of many cultures and backgrounds. The recognition of cultural protocols of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important part of developing a culturally sensitive environment for the University's students, staff and communities.
The protocols are being developed for involvement of Elders in University committees, events and activities.
National protocols are available for the recognition of intellectual property, and for research projects and training.
Culture
The Griffith University Art Collection includes Indigenous artworks. In addition Indigenous artworks are included into some of the corporate designs.
- Explore the Art Collection and Dell Gallery
- Explore the corporate artworks and find information about the artists
Partnerships and engagement
Griffith University has a proud history of commitment to working with Elders, development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community engagement strategies, and partnerships for community empowerment.
Griffith recognises that the continuation of the living Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture requires it to enter into respectful partnerships where all parties come to the partnership as equals. In particular we recognise that appropriate partnerships with Traditional Owners are the cornerstone to celebrating and continuing the oldest living culture in the world.