UTS Reflection: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Culture, 2019

This assignment presents a personal reflection on the author's evolving understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. Initially holding stereotypical views based on limited information, the author describes how their perspective shifted through personal interactions and academic study. The reflection details encounters that challenged preconceived notions, such as an act of kindness from an Aboriginal individual and insights gained from coursework and summer placements. Through these experiences, the author developed a deeper appreciation for the culture, traditions, and the harmless nature of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, leading to a more respectful and informed perspective. The assignment highlights the importance of direct experience and education in overcoming bias and fostering cultural understanding.

Running head: REFLECTION
REFLECTION
Name of the Student:
Name of the University:
Author note:

1REFLECTION
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a strong connection with the
value, culture and history of Australia. I was an international student studying in Australia
from past 2 years, and have become familiar with different aspect of their culture and
tradition. In this reflection, I will deliberate my individual perspective on the Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander people and in what way my perception regarding them have changed.
During my first visit in Australia, I had heard various beliefs and misconceptions
regarding the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They were completely stereotyped
and I had initially trusted this belief that they were violent, drug abusers and were involved in
different crime and they even do not communicate with other people who do not belong to
their community. Hence, I always used to ignore these people in my university or in public
transport or place and pretend that I am not seeing them.
My complete perspective was changed after I met a lady belonging to the Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Island community, who had helped me in the train when I got injured due to
the rush and gave me her seat to relax. I had also studied regarding them in my university
course and had spent my time with some of those members during my summer placements.
After that I learned that they have a traditional living style with different culture that
comprise of unique talents of presenting dance, art or work. Hence, I understood that they
were completely harmless and similar to other living being.
Therefore, in this reflection I have explained my understanding regarding the
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and what was my perception regarding them
before studying and knowing them in general. After I understood their tradition and culture I
had stopped being condemnatory towards them and respected them like any other individual
of any culture.