As unprecedented fires continue to burn across the continent, we wanted to share Dujuan’s words of wisdom with you. This scene from In My Blood It Runs shows traditional seasonal burning practices in the Gulf Country, NT, being passed down from one generation to the next — from Dujuan’s father Jim to Dujuan.
Our hearts go out to all those families who lost loved ones, those who lost their homes this last month and the many millions of animals that were killed or displaced. In particular we acknowledge the deep pain for First Nations people witnessing these terrible impacts on their Country. We are reminded again of the importance of listening to the First Peoples of this land for leadership on how we can better care for country and work to reduce the staggering effects of climate change.
We recognise that the ecology is different in Borroloola and this burning is different to that which takes place down south, but in sharing this clip we seek to acknowledge the value of cultural knowledge across all nations.
In responding to these devastating fires we encourage you to consider donating to these First Nations initiatives;
Fire Relief Fund for First Nations Communities
This fundraiser is to offer culturally sensitive, specific support to First Nations people impacted by these fires. Funds will cover expenses such as temporary relocation, emergency relief, replacing vital personal items such as medical equipment, clothing and toiletries.
Donate To The First Nations Fire Relief Fund
Firesticks Alliance
Firesticks Alliance Indigenous Corporation is an Indigenous led network and aims to re-invigorate the use of cultural burning by facilitating cultural learning pathways to fire and land management. It is an initiative for Indigenous and non- Indigenous people to look after Country, share their experiences and collectively explore ways to achieve their goals.
Seed Indigenous Youth Climate Coalition
Seed is Australia’s first Indigenous youth climate network.
Seed are building a movement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people for climate justice with the Australian Youth Climate Coalition. Seed’s vision is for a just and sustainable future with strong cultures and communities, powered by renewable energy.
“Understanding fire, is how we have looked after this country for generations to make it better for the next generation; for the plants, animals and the people – regeneration.”
William Tilmouth, Advisor and Chairman of Children’s Ground
In solidarity and with hope for a more caring future,
The In My Blood It Runs team
Find information on screenings and February 20th Opening week Q&A events of In My Blood It Runs at: inmyblooditruns.com/screenings
