As an Elder I walk in my ancestors footprints and leave footprints for tomorrow Elders

The NAIDOC theme 2023 ‘For Our Elders’ recognises the work Elders have done and do for our communities. Elders are leaders, role models, knowledge holders and give service to community.

Growing up I was taught to respect my elders, this meant to listen, do what I was told and to care for them. My role model was my Nan (Josephine Pearl Moran), I loved the times we would lay up in bed and share stories. She was a survivor, lived through the impact of the Aboriginal Protection policy and the separation from her siblings and children. Nan was strong, resilient and loved her family dearly.

As an Elder I walk in my ancestors footprints and leave footprints for tomorrow Elders. I continue to work towards ensuring our communities are heard, seen, valued, have a sense of belonging and are safe. My passion is to revive and maintain Aboriginal culture through language and practices. In giving my time to this passion I gift future generations with a model of care for Country, culture and family (blood and chosen).