We Not Strangers or Visitors
By Charmaine Papertalk Green
Published 1 December 2023
First Nations peoples connecting to land they are not strangers or visitors.
Yamaji nyinayugundi
Old ground our country with ancient ones deep within
Winja barna
I think all the time about minding this land for the next generation.
Nganggurnmanha
Their energy and sweat is in them rocks their heart is in them rocks
Gudurdu yabu
The Yamaji architects with the clay and mud huts Placed on the same land pre settler’s time.
Mintha Jirraminda
Young teachings perched on Walkaway hill Space reclaiming, decolonising, respacing.
Miyarnuwimanha
There cannot be masterclass in amnesia We must continue to remember.
Waji gurlgardayimanha
This land is old your ancestors’ spirits Will protect you because they remember all.
Nganggurnmanha
The land has strong rich stories Imprinted all over its face.
Malga barna
The color of connection to our old people can look like the long dusty road red dirt road heading bush.