Oodgeroo Noonuccal, formerly known as Kath Walker, was a prominent figure in Australian literature and an influential voice in the movement for Aboriginal rights. As the first Aboriginal Australian to publish a book of verse, she used her writing as a powerful tool to communicate the experiences and perspectives of her people. In her work, she explored themes of dispossession, racism, and cultural survival, sparking a renewed interest in indigenous culture and heritage.
Born on this day November 3, 1920 on Stradbroke Island, Queensland, Noonuccal was a member of the Noonuccal tribe. Her early experiences with racial discrimination fueled her desire to fight for equality and justice for her people, leading her to become actively involved in the Aboriginal rights movement. In 1964, she published We Are Going, a collection of poems that vividly depicted the struggles and resilience of the Aboriginal community. The book was acclaimed both nationally and internationally, marking a monumental moment in Australia’s literary history.
Oodgeroo Noonuccal’s work challenged the marginalization of Australia’s Aboriginal peoples and encouraged readers to recognize and respect their rich cultural heritage. Her writing was characterized by a deep love for her land and her people, and a resounding call for social justice. She drew upon the oral traditions of her tribe and infused her poems with indigenous languages, creating a unique blend of traditional storytelling and contemporary poetry.
Through her words, Oodgeroo Noonuccal gave voice to Australia’s Aboriginal community, capturing their shared histories, their struggles, and their enduring spirit. Her contributions to literature and activism have left a lasting impression on Australia’s cultural landscape. Today, she remains an inspirational figure – a testament to the power of words to incite change and foster understanding.
Dreamtime
Here, at the invaders talk-talk place,
We, who are the strangers now,
Come with sorrow in our hearts.
The Bora Ring, the Corroborees,
The sacred ceremonies,
Have all gone, all gone,
Turned to dust on the land,
That once was ours.
Oh spirits from the unhappy past,
Hear us now.
We come, not to disturb your rest.
We come, to mourn your passing.
You, who paid the price,
When the invaders spilt our blood.
Your present generation comes,
Seeking strength and wisdom in your memory.
The legends tell us,
When our race dies,
So too, dies the land.
May your spirits go with us
From this place.
May the Mother of life,
Wake from her sleeping,
and lead us on to the happy life,
That once was ours.
Oh mother of life,
Oh spirits from the unhappy past,
Hear the cries of your unhappy people,
And let it be so.
Oh spirits- Let it be so.
-Oodgeroo Noonuccal
Curated by Jennifer
