This project aims to deepen our understanding of the role that ‘country’ plays in the context of life, healing and connection. By prioritising active listening and learning, we aim to cultivate a greater appreciation of the culture and knowledge of First Nations.
Reading Country is an engagement project to celebrate National Reconciliation Week. The initiative is organised by allies at Melbourne Connect who are dedicated to enhancing reconciliation through reading and community engagement.
Reading Country provides a unique opportunity for University staff, students and members of our community – both allies and First Nations people alike – to come together and participate in a book group that explores and celebrates works written by Indigenous Australian authors.
To ensure broad participation, multiple book clubs will run concurrently, with all book groups meeting during National Reconciliation Week. Featured authors would also be invited to attend a public event as part of this significant week.
To make this project accessible, Melbourne Connect will facilitate the purchase of books at a reduced cost. Each book group will have a facilitator who is well-versed in engaging discussions, but we also encourage free-flowing discussion amongst book group members.
Are You Interested in Getting Involved?
Whether you are interested in leading a book group or joining an existing one, Melbourne Connect will assist with all the administrative tasks so you can focus on reading and connecting with others. We welcome readers, facilitators, and organisers from all backgrounds who share our passion for Indigenous Australian literature. To learn more, sign up at the LINK and we will be in touch with you shortly.
Why does Reading Country Exist?
The purpose of Reading Country is to:
Reading Country values:
Key Dates
Acknowledgments
This project has been organised on the lands of the Wurundjeri and Boon Wurrung people, and with respect to their elders, and to all Aboriginal elders past and present.
Reading Country acknowledges that for reconciliation to occur, non-Indigenous Australians need to take the responsibility for learning about Aboriginal culture and perspectives.
This project has received input from Indigenous colleagues at the University, as well as non-Indigenous staff and allies, to ensure that this project operates in an inclusive and respectful manner. We welcome your feedback to support the growth of this initiative.
We also acknowledge that this land was never ceded and that it has always been, and always will be Aboriginal land.
More Information
Please email Steve Grimwade at Melbourne Connect.
