Aboriginal Activism Talk

John Maynard and Ann Curthoys engage in a detailed examination of the extensive history of Aboriginal activism, spanning decades of struggle and resilience.

Beginning with the Australian Aboriginal Progressive Association's initiatives in the 1920s, they traverse significant milestones, including the landmark Freedom Ride of the 1960s. Delving into the multifaceted dimensions of activism, they analyze the pivotal ideas, courageous actions, and notable individuals driving change.

Moreover, they shine a spotlight on the profound influence of African American activists on Aboriginal activism, tracing connections from the early twentieth century to the transformative era of the 1960s and beyond.
About the presenters
Professor John Maynard, a distinguished Worimi Aboriginal scholar, directs the Wollotuka Institute of Aboriginal Studies at the University of Newcastle. His extensive contributions include serving as Deputy Chairperson of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), Executive Committee member of the Australian Historical Association, and Chair of Indigenous History. He's also been pivotal in organizations like the National Indigenous Research and Knowledges Network (NIRAKN) and the New South Wales History Council, showcasing his commitment to advancing Indigenous scholarship and historical understanding.

Professor Ann Curthoys, a leading figure in Australian history and feminism, was born in Sydney in 1945. Raised in a politically active family, she developed a strong commitment to social justice. Her involvement in the 1965 Freedom Ride demonstrated her dedication to combating racial discrimination. Graduating with honors from the University of Sydney, she pursued a PhD at Macquarie University, focusing on nineteenth-century race relations in New South Wales. As a scholar, she established the Women's Studies Program at the Australian National University and contributed influential works to Australian historiography.

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