Djukun Nation Demands Removal of Genocidal Comments: from South Australian Museum Website

Credit supplied: Djukun Country, 2024

On 18th October 2024, I - Jaala Ozies, Djukun woman formally requested the South Australian Museum to remove a harmful and inaccurate statement from their website. The statement, which claims ,"This tribe virtually is extinct", refers to the Djukun people and perpetuates a false narrative of cultural extinction. I have also highlighted the incorrect spelling of "Djukun" as "Djugun," which further misrepresents the Djukun community. 

This damaging description of the Djukun people echoes the genocidal comments made by anthropologist Norman Tindale. His research, which labelled the Djukun as nearly extinct, is a blantant attempt to erase the Djukun community’s presence and identity. Tindale’s work played a role in shaping how Indigenous groups were described in historical records, which has long-lasting effects on how these communities are perceived today.

The Importance of Correct Spelling: Disassociating from Genocidal Narratives

In my letter, I pointed out that the spelling of the name is deeply significant. The spelling "Djugun" is historically associated with Norman Tindale’s writings in 1974, which falsely described the Djukun people as "virtually extinct." To reject this harmful narrative, the Djukun Nation has chosen to spell their name as "Djukun," replacing the "g" with a "k." This change allows the Djukun people to reclaim their identity and disassociate themselves from the colonial description that was used to minimise their existence.

I have stated:

"The spelling of words holds immense power, especially when it comes to representing a people’s identity. The spelling 'Djugun' is tied to the genocidal comments made by anthropologists like Norman Tindale, who claimed that we were virtually extinct. By choosing to spell our name 'Djukun,' we are reclaiming our identity and disassociating ourselves from these false and harmful narratives."

The use of "Djukun" not only corrects the misrepresentation but also affirms the resilience of the community. Far from being extinct, the Djukun people are the current Native Title holders of Djukun Country and continue to revitalise their language, culture, and connection to their land.

Consultation and Inclusion of Indigenous Communities

This situation highlights the broader issue of how museums and institutions must consult Indigenous communities when representing their histories. I have urged the South Australian Museum to engage directly with the Djukun Nation and other Indigenous groups, ensuring that the information shared with the public is accurate and respectful. By failing to consult, institutions risk perpetuating harmful inaccuracies that damage the trust between Indigenous communities and those tasked with preserving their stories.

I have further emphasised:

"It is imperative that institutions like the South Australian Museum ensure that their representations of Indigenous peoples are accurate and respectful. This can only be achieved through active consultation with the communities involved, allowing them to be part of the decision-making process. Museums must collaborate with Indigenous peoples rather than perpetuating harmful colonial narratives."

Correcting the Record

In my letter, I provided the museum with contact details for the Djukun Nation, offering to provide further clarification on the community’s history and identity:

"For more information, you can contact Djukun Nation via email at djukunnation@gmail.com."

By fostering collaboration and consulting Indigenous communities, the South Australian Museum has the opportunity to correct the false narratives that have long dominated historical records. 

Moving Forward

By advocating for change this highlights the importance of Indigenous communities having control over their own narratives. Organisations need to consult with these communities and correct harmful, outdated narratives, museums, and institutions can promote truth and reconciliation while preserving the rich histories of First Nations peoples in a respectful and accurate manner.