“The Jews are like my people” – Aboriginal elder
At the Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia’s Conference in Darwin delegates Josie and Ian Lacey heard an address by Djapirri Mununggirritj .
Josie & Ian Lacey with Djapirri Mununggirritj
Sydney community figure Josie Lacey told J-Wire: “After her talk, I went to speak to Djapirri, to tell her how I felt about her deeply spiritual presentation. I introduced myself as coming from the Jewish community and her response was remarkable . She put her arms around me in an embracing hug and kissed me on the cheek. “The Jews are like my people and I love them ” she told me and asked for this photo to be taken while she held us both close. I have invited her to my home when she comes to Sydney quite soon. ”
Ms Mununggirritj is a Yolngu elder from North East Arnhem Land; a strong woman with a deep commitment to her people. She is currently working as an Indigenous Engagement Officer and is a trailblazer in the political arena. Ms Mununggirritj was instrumental in establishing the Yirrkala Women’s Patrol which saw Aboriginal elders walk the streets late at night to successfully deal with domestic violence, alcohol and other community safety issues. In 2011 she received the Northern Territory Australia’s Local Hero Award.
The theme of the conference was ” To Celebrate. Reflect. Advance: Challenges and Possibilities for Multicultural Australia “.
Josie Lacey, Life member of ECAJ and ECC NSW spoke on a panel about her involvement in interfaith and anti-racism .
