The art of listening deeply. Professor Jackie Huggins AM FAHA is one of Australia’s most respected elders, and this is a conversation that asks us to slow down and listen properly. A proud Bidjara and Birri Gubba Juru woman, she is an author, historian, and lifelong advocate whose work has shaped national conversations on truth-telling, reconciliation, and Indigenous women’s voices. As co-author of Auntie Rita and a contributor to landmark national inquiries, Jackie speaks with history, dignity, and lived wisdom about reconciliation as unfinished generational work, the necessity of deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australia, the responsibility and honour of elderhood, mentoring younger activists, and the ongoing fight for justice, treaty, and truth-telling. This is not a conversation to skim – it’s one to sit with, deeply.
Show Note:
Lifelong commitment to reconciliation @ 0:00
Jackie Huggins discusses her 30-year experience working in reconciliation, inspired by her mother’s work. She sees reconciliation as unfinished business that will continue for generations, as the country must acknowledge the lies and truths of its history.
The importance of deep listening @ 6:58
Jackie emphasizes the need for deep listening and action from non-Indigenous Australians to truly address the country’s history and move forward. She believes Indigenous voices and solutions are often dismissed or not taken seriously.
Mentoring the next generation @ 25:37
In the later stages of her career, Jackie focuses on mentoring young Indigenous activists and campaigners, passing on her wisdom and experience to empower the next generation to continue the fight for justice and self-determination.
The role of Indigenous elders @ 48:20
Jackie discusses the respected position of Indigenous elders in her community, and how she has grown into that role, using her voice to guide and correct younger community members. She sees this as a great honor and responsibility.
Advice for the next generation @ 1:00:22
Jackie’s key advice to younger women, Indigenous and non-Indigenous, is to never give up, to stay true to themselves, and to keep fighting for justice and a better future, even in the face of challenges and obstacles.
Ongoing fight for treaty and truth-telling @ 1:04:00
Jackie remains hopeful that the Uluru Statement from the Heart will eventually lead to treaty and truth-telling processes, despite current setbacks. She believes the fight will continue, with younger generations carrying it forward.
Professor Jackie Huggins Books
https://www.uqp.com.au/books/sister-girl-reflections-on-tiddaism-identity-and-reconciliation
https://shop.aiatsis.gov.au/products/auntie-rita-revised-edition