7 Things You Shouldn't Do With Aboriginal Australians

Aboriginal Australians are the traditional owners of the land now known as Australia and New Zealand. As such, they have a distinct cultural identity and set of customs that must be respected. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of not understanding and respecting these customs, leading to negative interactions and outcomes. In this blog post, we’ll discuss seven things you should not do when interacting with Aboriginal Australians in order to ensure a positive outcome and to show respect for their culture and traditions.

1) Don't ask them personal questions

Aboriginal Australians are just like any other people - they value their privacy and respect. Asking intrusive questions about their personal lives, such as their job, family, finances or even health is disrespectful and can be offensive. It's important to remember that not all Aboriginal Australians are comfortable discussing personal matters, so it's best to avoid asking these types of questions altogether. If you're interested in learning more about Aboriginal culture and history, there are many appropriate ways to do this without crossing the line into intrusive questioning.

2) Don't touch them without permission

It's always important to respect personal space, and this is especially true when dealing with Aboriginal Australians. Showing respect for personal boundaries is essential. Don't touch an Aboriginal person without first asking for their permission and making sure it is okay. Unsolicited physical contact, such as a hug or handshake, can be seen as offensive and should be avoided. Respect their personal boundaries and remember that they have the right to refuse any form of physical contact.

3) Don't take photos without permission

It's important to remember that Aboriginal Australians have the right to privacy, just like anyone else. Taking photos of Aboriginal people without their permission is a sign of disrespect. Furthermore, it can be seen as a way of commodifying them and their culture. If you're interested in taking photos of an Aboriginal person or group, you should always ask for their permission first. Respectfully explain why you'd like to take the photo and if they give you the green light, make sure you thank them.

4) Don't stare

It is important to remember that Aboriginal Australians are people just like anyone else and should be treated with the same respect and courtesy. Staring can make someone feel very uncomfortable and unwelcome. It is important to show respect to Aboriginal Australians by not staring at them or making them feel like they are under a microscope. Avoid staring and instead, look them in the eye when conversing and give them the same courtesy as you would any other person. Showing respect to Aboriginal Australians is an important step in building positive relationships with them.

5) Don't assume they're all the same

When it comes to Aboriginal Australians, it is important to remember that they are a diverse group. Every person is unique and has different cultural beliefs, experiences, and values. This means that generalizing about them or assuming that all Aboriginal Australians are the same can be very harmful.

Take the time to get to know individuals, ask questions, and build relationships. It is important to respect the diversity within the Aboriginal community and recognize that no two individuals are the same. Every Aboriginal Australian is an individual with their own unique story, and this should be respected.

6) Don't use the term primitive

It is important to remember that Aboriginal Australians are a complex, diverse and vibrant community, with a rich culture and heritage that spans thousands of years. As such, it is wrong to refer to them as "primitive" or any other derogatory term. Such language perpetuates negative stereotypes and ignores the fact that they are just as advanced and sophisticated as any other society in the world.

Using the word "primitive" implies that Aboriginal Australians are somehow less developed or inferior, when in reality they have a vast array of knowledge and expertise that we could all benefit from. Rather than labeling them as primitive, it is important to remember the history and strength of their culture and appreciate their many positive contributions.

Additionally, referring to Aboriginal Australians as primitive undermines the progress that has been made in the fight for indigenous rights and recognition. It is essential to acknowledge the complexity of their history and to do away with language that ignores the struggle and oppression that they have faced.

Ultimately, it is best to respect Aboriginal Australians as an equally evolved and sophisticated society, and to avoid terms such as "primitive". Doing so will help to create an atmosphere of mutual understanding and appreciation between both cultures.

7) Don't make assumptions about their culture

It is important to remember that each Aboriginal group has its own unique culture and values. It is wrong to assume that all Aboriginal people share the same beliefs or cultural practices. Every Aboriginal group has its own individual history, stories, language, customs and traditions. It is best to respect the diversity of Aboriginal culture and try to learn about it from those who live it. Avoid making generalizations about any one group of Aboriginal people. Respect the right of Aboriginal people to choose what they want to share with others. Remember that this knowledge is precious and not to be taken lightly.

7 Things You Shouldn't Do With Aboriginal Australians