Deep Dive
What is the significance of June Oscar's role as the first woman Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner?
June Oscar was the first woman to hold the role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner in its 20-year history. She used her position to advocate for and empower Indigenous women and girls across Australia, elevating their voices and addressing systemic inequalities. Her work included extensive community engagement, culminating in a landmark report presented to federal parliament in December 2020.
How did June Oscar's early life and upbringing shape her career and advocacy work?
June Oscar was born in Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia, in 1962, and raised in a matriarchal environment by her mother and grandmother. Her early life involved separation from her family for education, including living in a mission dormitory. These experiences instilled resilience and a deep connection to her culture, which later fueled her advocacy for Indigenous rights, gender justice, and community empowerment.
What was the Wiyi Yani U Thangani project, and what impact did it have?
The Wiyi Yani U Thangani (Women’s Voices) project was a national engagement initiative led by June Oscar during her tenure as Social Justice Commissioner. She traveled to over 50 Aboriginal communities, speaking to thousands of women and girls, including gender-diverse individuals. The project culminated in a report presented to federal parliament in 2020, highlighting the need for agency, respect, and co-design in policies affecting Indigenous women and girls.
Why did June Oscar include gender-diverse individuals in the Wiyi Yani U Thangani project?
June Oscar included gender-diverse individuals in the Wiyi Yani U Thangani project to ensure their voices were heard in national engagement processes. She recognized that they were often overlooked in gendered discussions and wanted to address their unique challenges and priorities. This inclusive approach was a first in such initiatives and highlighted the importance of representation for all members of the Indigenous community.
What role does June Oscar believe First Nations women play in peacebuilding?
June Oscar believes First Nations women are uniquely positioned to lead in peacebuilding due to their deep cultural knowledge, customary law frameworks, and kinship systems. She emphasizes their ability to address conflict, foster reconciliation, and maintain social harmony within communities. Their leadership is seen as vital in healing intergenerational trauma and building stronger, more respectful relationships across Australia.
How does June Oscar view the future of reconciliation in Australia?
June Oscar remains optimistic about reconciliation in Australia, despite the setback of the 2023 Voice referendum. She sees the empowerment of First Nations women as a key driver of meaningful change, emphasizing their strength, hope, and ability to advocate for their communities. She believes in building alliances and creating opportunities for Indigenous voices to be included in decision-making processes.
What challenges did June Oscar face in her early education?
June Oscar faced significant challenges in her early education, including being separated from her family at a young age to live in a mission dormitory 80 kilometers from her home. She experienced trauma and loneliness but found support among her peers. Despite these difficulties, she excelled academically, thanks to dedicated teachers who fought for her right to education.
What is the mission of the First Nations Gender Justice Institute?
The First Nations Gender Justice Institute, led by June Oscar at the Australian National University, aims to advance gender justice for Indigenous women and girls. It focuses on elevating their voices, addressing systemic inequalities, and promoting their roles in peacebuilding and leadership. The institute also works to create inclusive spaces for gender-diverse individuals and foster reconciliation through research, advocacy, and community engagement.
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