Published: 6th October 2023
In the lead up to the referendum, there has been increasing discussion and debate. While balanced and considerate conversation is integral to increasing public awareness, we must recognise the harm that has been inflicted upon the First Nations community throughout this debate, due to a great deal of misinformation and hurtful comments that have been circulating in the news and on social media.
Many members of the First Nation's community have been deeply affected by the rhetoric and discourse surrounding the Voice, which has at times perpetuated stereotypes, misconceptions, and historical trauma. At times, conversations in the wider public have laid bare the ongoing injustices faced by First Nations peoples, which can be emotionally taxing for those directly affected.
Respecting and honouring your emotions during this time
You may be feeling a range of emotions and feelings right now that conflict with each other, alternating from being optimistic and feeling hopeful, to being confused, worried or frustrated. It’s okay to have a range of emotions, but it’s important to take stock of these and acknowledge how you are feeling and what you need to do to keep your spirit and mind strong.
Here are a few suggestions to take care of your wellbeing at this time:
- Reach out and talk with someone for support. If you don’t want to talk to a friend, colleague or family member, a range of support services are available.
- Have a yarn with 13YARN [Thirteen YARN], the first national crisis support line for mob who are feeling overwhelmed or having difficulty coping.
- Take a break from the news and social media, and make time each day to unplug by turning off your phone, computer, iPad and television.
- Focus on what’s important to you and invest some time in reconnecting to this.
- Check in with your body. If it’s tense, do something calming, such as going for a walk somewhere you feel safe, or listening to some chilled music. To help lift your mood, dance to an upbeat playlist, play a board game with friends, exercise, or cook your favourite meal.
- Look after your body by getting between 6-8 hours of sleep, drinking 8-10 cups of water per day, and eating a range of foods and reducing the consumption of processed foods.
Remember, you have a choice when confronted with challenging conversations or hurtful situations. You have the choice to walk away from conversations that are harmful. Alternatively, you can choose to engage in discussion and educate others about misconceptions. You can also challenge hurtful and unhelpful opinions by asking for clarification, expressing disagreement, redirecting the conversation, and challenging stereotypes.
Support services
Murdoch University provides the following support services to our students:
There are also a range of online and in-person support services available from external providers:
- Gayaa Dhuwi (Proud Spirit) Australia:Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership in social and emotional wellbeing, mental health and suicide prevention.
- Health Info Net: Providing an evidence base to inform practice and policy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health.
- Online forums and support:
- Face-to- face counselling:
- 24-hour crisis support:
Further information about the Voice
It’s important everyone is informed enough to have balanced and considerate conversations. We all have a vote to cast, after all. These resources may help you understand what the Voice is all about and how you can be an ally to First Nations peoples over this period.
