Post-Colonialism (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders)

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can experience discrimination due to individual, group and systemic oppressions. Individual and community attitudes and experiences of discrimination can impact on a person's wellbeing, Allied health professionals are constantly called on to recognise the multi-layered impact of colonialism on those who seek their help, while simultaneously challenging their own perceptions and stereotypes. The chapter starts with definitions and statistics to contextualise the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders within the contemporary Australian environment. The link between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders and emotional, physical and mental health is critically examined followed by the personal experiences of individuals as they navigate living with the impact of colonialism, discrimination and bias. Experiential activities that encourage the learner to test and challenge societal stereotypes, their own perceptions and gain a greater understanding of environmental, social and institutional barriers faced by Indigenous Australians will conclude this chapter.