So, you’ve been asked to do an Acknowledgement of Country, and you don’t what to do or say? Here's a quick guide.
Start by finding the name of the Traditional Custodians or local mob. If you don’t know where to start, you can find someplace to start here.
Once you find who they are, you can ask them if they have preferred wording for an Acknowledgement of Country. If they do, you can confidently take their advice.
Otherwise, here’s some simple wording that can be used when you know who the Traditional Custodians are:
“I’d like to acknowledge the <Darkinjung> people as Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today. I pay my respects to the Elders, past, present and future, and recognise the continuing connection and contribution to this land and waters. I extend this respect to any Aboriginal people who are here today.”
Just replace ‘Darkinjung’ with the name of the Traditional Custodians where you are.
If you are not sure whose country you are on at the time, you can use this:
“I wish to acknowledge Aboriginal people as the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we meet today. I pay my respects to the Elders, past, present and future, and recognise the continuing connection and contribution to this land. I would like to extend that respect to any Aboriginal people who are here today.”
Simples, right?
Have you ever seen anyone do a great Acknowledgement of Country? What made it stand out? Was it confidence in delivery? The wording itself?
Quick tip: Keep in mind that your Acknowledgment of Country continues an ancient custom and is an opportunity to participate in a traditional Aboriginal ceremony.
If you’d like to learn more you can download my Quick Workplace Guide to Welcomes to Country and Acknowledgements of Country by clicking the button below.
