M3 - Learner Manual
2. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Similarities and Diversities
Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations and peoples share a common history of cultural development and colonial interactions and impact. There are however, differences in traditional boundaries, languages and customs.
One of the similarities is the structures of kinship. It is through kinship that identity is formed and grows meaning, through links which connect people to people (and groups) and people to country and the universe. It sets out connection and responsibilities to county and each other.
In mainland Australia, Indigenous people lived in semi-permanent / semi-nomadic lifestyles, centred around cultural maintenance responsibilities which reinforced their connection to land. They travelled with seasonal cycles, returning to the same locations tending to cultural responsibilities, hunting grounds and other food sources. Permanent villages were the norm for most Torres Strait Island communities.
Both similarities and differences run through many aspects of Indigenous cultures. These include language, appearance, land usage, the drawing of marriage lines, the handing down of responsibilities, spiritual beliefs and communication protocols.
As a brief example, some other similarities and diversities may include:
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Similarities |
Diversities |
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· ‘Family’ refers to extended family · rights and obligations are guided by kinship relationships within the family – less so in urban communities · communication protocols governed by kinship systems are similarly structured across the country · those who speak traditional languages, usually speak more than one traditional language · The terms ‘Aunty’ and ‘Uncle’ are used as a mark of respect · For English speaking Aboriginal people, there are English terms and turns of phrase which are distinctly Aboriginal e.g. deadly, cheeky, mob. |
· Aboriginal peoples live in a diverse range of areas (Traditional, remote, rural, suburban, urban) and engage in varying degrees of traditional and western behaviours and communication protocols. This can be at community, family or individual levels · There were hundreds of distinct languages · Some communities speak only traditional languages, some speak traditional languages and English, some speak only English · Each community has its own protocols. Though they may have some similarities there will always be differences |