This presentation, based on early doctoral work of a PhD candidate at the University of Melbourne supported by a scholarship from the Lowitja Institute, will focus on the representation and portrayal of young urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in research, and the work of Indigenous researchers who combat this approach and have helped shape and decolonise methods of enquiry and research into identities (Arabena, Rowley & MacLean 2014; Carlson 2016; Fredericks 2008; Fredericks 2014; Holmes et al. 2002; Kickett-Tucker 2009; Langton 1981). This background sets the scene for a research project that explores notions of identities as voiced and practiced by young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in Melbourne, using qualitative methods. This project seeks to address the (mis)representation and portrayal of young urban Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people (Fredericks 2013; Holmes et al. 2002; Kickett-Tucker 2009; Langton 1981; Nelson 2012; White 1999), and the stereotypes and notions of Indigeneity and associated ‘inauthenticity’. This study also considers how identity influences social and emotional health and wellbeing using interactive and creative engagement methods.
The key research question is: How do urban Victorian young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people practice Indigeneity?
In addressing this question, concepts and constructions of identities will be explored relating to the ways in which young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people see themselves and the communities to which they belong.
Constructive conversations about the progression, development of the project, the partnerships being formed as part of the research, and the next key steps for this research are welcome as a part of the presentation.
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