Empowering Voice through the Creation of a Safe Space: An Experience of Aboriginal Women in Regional Queensland

• Main Authors: Christina M Bernardes, Patricia C Valery, Brian Arley, Gregory Pratt, Linda Medlin, Judith A Meiklejohn
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-02-01
• Series: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
• Subjects: indigenous; voices; story; empowerment; queensland; regional; wellbeing
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/5/1476

Background: Sharing stories creates a space for respectful conversation and contributes to both knowledge and a sense of fellowship. This paper reflects on the experience of the research team in supporting a group of Aboriginal women to create safe spaces and to share their stories of healing, social and emotional wellbeing. Methods: Secondary data of a study exploring community perceptions about cancer were analysed using the holistic model of Indigenous Wellbeing developed by the Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative (2008). Qualitative data were collected during yarning sessions with a group of Aboriginal women while creating a quilt. Results: Four elements of the Indigenous Wellbeing model were identified: connectedness, sense of control, threats and relationship with the mainstream. The yarning sessions promoted dialogue, identified needs and supported the voices of the participants. A duality of forces (positive and negative) influencing community wellbeing was identified. Conclusion: This project highlights the need for spaces that support people and the community to express concerns, identify needs, propose solutions and begin a dialogue that encourages empowerment. Community-driven conversation and the identification of safe and empowering spaces can serve to empower social and emotional wellbeing.