To Learn (or Not To Learn)February 15, 2016

Indigenous Literacy Day, which will be held on September 2, is about reaching out to the indigenous community. They must raise their literacy level, which will give them more opportunities.

Some might question the motives behind this campaign. (Is this another way of atoning to past events? Not really.) Moreover, not a few will wonder if there's a need to make them familiar with the outside world. The old ones are set in their own ways, but the youth is something else. It's not hard to imagine curious minds. Don't be surprised if there are rebels among them. And nothing will be the same after they get in touch with technology. No one can be a fence sitter, so let's look at it closely.

We have a responsibility

â€œThe Apology opened the opportunity for a new relationship based on mutual respect and mutual responsibility between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australia. Because without mutual respect and mutual responsibility, the truth is we can achieve very little.â€

- Kevin Rudd

How the indigenous Australians react to this campaign is important. We have a responsibility. We come with good intention. It's important to both sides. There are some things to keep in mind. Here they are:

More is better. Any gathering gives us a chance to meet new people. This means new mates, which is good. However, it will be better if we can participate in this campaign with a familiar face. (Family is better, but don't forget your mates.) Nothing like sharing good experience. It can be an eye opener for anyone. (Even the old can learn something new.) Think about it.

Don't forget to bring books. An author can be a good companion, not to mention the ideas that will make you a wise person. It will be nice to part some of your books to the ones who need it the most. Let's hope it will make the indigenous community less wary of the outside world. It will be a huge step if that will be the case, but it will be better if the young ones show a genuine interest in literature.

Always be respectful of other customs. This campaign shouldn't be a case of comparing two different cultures. Remember that we live in the same place. This event is a good opportunity to learn about the indigenous community, of what they have been doing. What you might see may be an enriching experience.

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