This chapter explores various healing programs and approaches developed by Indigenous communities to address intergenerational trauma and support the healing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who experienced the trauma of the Stolen Generations. It highlights the importance of cultural safety, spirituality, and community-led healing, as well as the significance of co-designing solutions with the input of Indigenous communities.
In Australia there are an estimated 17,000 Stolen Generations survivors, and a lack of culturally relevant mental health services is a major barrier to healing for many of them. Now programs led by Indigenous communities themselves are helping people to confront and move past their trauma. We talk with Stolen Generations survivor Aunty Lorraine Peeters, whose life experience led to a pioneering healing program, and became part of a groundswell of Indigenous-led solutions to address trauma. And Indigenous psychologist Kelleigh Ryan describes the challenges to supporting culturally appropriate healing.
Presented as part of Reconciliation Week 2020, and the ABC's Walking Together initiative.