Problematising the discourses of the dominant: whiteness and reconciliation

This article investigates how underlying forms of power can affect the political actions of those in the dominant group, in this case white Australians. To do this we identify connections between the discourses used by white Australians involved in Reconciliation, the power and privilege of whiteness in Australia, and participants’ understandings and actions towards Reconciliation. Using Parker’s (1992) approach to discourse analysis, four discourses were identified from interviews and focus groups with white Australians involved in Reconciliation. These were labelled ‘indigenous project’, ‘institutional change’, ‘challenging racism’, and ‘bringing them together’. We argue that understanding the power relations that underlie the political actions of those in dominant positions is critical to ensuring the goals of anti-racism are achieved. Discourse analysis may allow us to gain a deeper understanding of the power and the potential impacts that may flow from particular positions and how power may be made more visible to the dominant group

Examining discourses of whiteness and the potential for reconciliation

The aim of this paper is to explore how examining discourses of whiteness can contribute to an anti-racism that does not simply reduce racism to problems located with the ‘other’ or focus on the benefits of anti-racism for the dominant group. We discuss how by examining discursive negotiations at the micro level we are able to critique dominance and privilege at the macro level. To illustrate this we use the findings from a discourse analysis (Henriques, Hollway, Urwin, Venn, & Walkerdine, 1998)of discussions with white Australians about their involvement in Reconciliation. In particular, we identify spaces for the examination and critique of whiteness within white Australians’ discursive negotiations of Reconciliation. We also discuss how engagement with Indigenous knowledges is a necessary part of the critique of whiteness

Reconciliation Australia's Challenge

Final Report of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation to the Prime Minister and the Commonwealth Parliament

Making things aright: Reconciliation after the High Courts decision on Native Title

A booklet format

Reconciliation in Australia? Dreaming Beyond the Cult of Forgetfulness

This chapter explores the history of reconciliation in Australia, the policy framework, obstacles and achievements. It draws on the experience of Julie Collins of Reconciliation in Action at Myall Creek and in the work of the community arts organisation, Beyond Empathy and also shares the experiences of Warlpa Kutjika Thompson, a Wiimpatja, from the western district of NSW. I (Julie) have been collaborating with Warlpa Kutjika Thompson on this chapter on Australian reconciliation and other projects, in an attempt to share power and perspective. Our collaboration has led to many interesting discussions that have deepened my understanding of the complexity of what needs to happen for reconciliation to occur