As a step toward fulfilling our commitment to provide information and resources for respectful engagement and communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities, the VCCC Alliance core staff team recently attended Building Aboriginal Cultural Competency workshops.
The workshops are an initiative of the Koorie Heritage Trust and were facilitated by the impressive Carissa Watts, a proud Yorta Yorta, Dja Dja Warrung woman who explained historical facts, illustrated by personal stories and lived experience.
The team is keen to attend the second part of the learning journey and will undertake Building Aboriginal Cultural Safety workshops at the Koorie Heritage Trust Yarra Building in early June.
Located in the cultural heart of Narrm (Melbourne) at Federation Square by the banks of the Birrarung Marr (River of Mists – Yarra River), the Koorie Heritage Trust is a not for profit First Nations owned and managed arts and cultural organisation providing opportunities for all people to learn, connect and re-connect with the rich living cultural heritage of Aboriginal Victoria.
The learnings from the two workshops – and further reflective sessions - aim to build respect and cultural sensitivity broadly across our staff team.
It is hoped the training will also inform respectful and inclusive methods for engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait people and communities in VCCC Alliance-led programs of work and educational offerings, with the goal of improving equity of cancer outcomes for all patients.
For more information contact Dr Vijaya Joshi, VCCC Alliance Health Equity Manager, [email protected].
