Indigenous psychologists from Australia, Canada, the US, and New Zealand recently gathered at the University of Western Australia (UWA) in Boorloo. This significant meeting aimed to build international collaboration to address the intertwined challenges of climate change and mental health within First Nations communities. The event, hosted by Professor Pat Dudgeon, Australia’s first Indigenous psychologist, served as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and strategies.
A Global Summit on Indigenous Wellbeing
The gathering brought together leading minds in Indigenous psychology, creating a powerful network for change. The scholars were welcomed to Boorloo as part of the Winhangadurinya Project, an initiative from the Australian National University (ANU) led by Dr. Stewart Sutherland.
The delegation included a diverse group of experts, each bringing a unique perspective from their respective nations. This convergence of knowledge is seen as a critical step in developing culturally-informed solutions to global problems.
The collaboration was designed to bridge continents and cultures, uniting scholars to share wisdom and practices. Below are some of the notable attendees who contributed to the discussions.
| Scholar | Affiliation & Nation |
| A/Prof Jeffrey Ansloos | Fisher River Cree Nation, University of Toronto, Canada |
| A/Prof Waikaremoana Waitoki | Ngāti Hako & Ngāti Māhanga iwi, Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao, NZ |
| Dr. Mark Standing Eagle Baez | Mohawk & Pawnee, Bemidji State University, US |
| Dr. Hukarere Valentine | Massey University, NZ |
| Dr. Stewart Sutherland | Wiradjuri man, Australian National University, AU |
Climate Change at the Forefront of Mental Health
A key event was a public lecture on October 25 at the WA Museum Boola Bardip, titled ‘Climate Change and Global Indigenous Psychology.’ The international scholars delivered a compelling presentation on how environmental changes disproportionately affect the mental health of First Nations peoples.
They explained that for Indigenous communities, the deep, spiritual connection to the land is fundamental to social and emotional wellbeing. Therefore, climate-driven damage to the environment directly translates to psychological distress. The lecture emphasized moving beyond conventional psychology to embrace Indigenous-led solutions.
The discussion highlighted several key areas for action and understanding:
- The direct and indirect mental health impacts of climate change on Indigenous communities.
- How traditional Indigenous mindfulness and healing practices can build resilience against environmental stress.
- The urgent need for global cooperation among Indigenous peoples to create effective, shared solutions.
During their time in Boorloo, the scholars also engaged with local organizations, including the Wungening Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA), to exchange knowledge and enrich local and international perspectives.
Justice, Politics, and Collective Healing
On October 28, A/Prof Ansloos and Dr. Baez presented the 2024 Robin Winkler Lecture at UWA. Their talk, ‘Mental Health is Political: Global Indigenous Struggles for Racial Justice and Collective Healing,’ was a powerful examination of the links between systemic injustice and mental wellbeing.
The lecture argued that the mental health challenges in Indigenous communities cannot be separated from their political and historical contexts. They highlighted how activism for racial justice is a crucial component of promoting collective healing and psychological resilience.
Before the lecture, a traditional Welcome to Country smoking ceremony was held at Bilya Marlee. Led by Noongar elders Aunty Roma Winmar and Aunty Tjalaminu Mia, the ceremony honored the visiting academics and underscored the importance of cultural respect in fostering genuine collaboration.
Forging a Path for Future Collaboration
The gathering concluded with a strong commitment from all participants to continue their work together. The group announced plans for several future initiatives aimed at creating lasting change. These plans include co-authoring research papers, applying for joint research grants, and establishing ongoing programs for knowledge exchange.
In a joint statement, the scholars expressed their excitement about future meetings on Whadjuk Noongar boodjar, emphasizing the strength found in their shared goals. Professor Dudgeon reinforced this sentiment, stating, “Indigenous research methods have shown community engagement and cultural empowerment is vital in understanding and addressing real-world issues.”
A/Prof Ansloos powerfully captured the spirit of the event, saying, “We need to look to the political courage of Indigenous peoples around the world.” His words serve as a reminder of the resilience and determination that drives this global movement for wellbeing and justice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who attended the Indigenous psychologists’ gathering at UWA?
The event included prominent Indigenous psychologists and scholars from Australia, Canada, the United States, and New Zealand, such as Professor Pat Dudgeon, A/Prof Jeffrey Ansloos, and Dr. Mark Standing Eagle Baez.
What was the main focus of the public lecture?
The lecture focused on the profound impact of climate change on the mental health of First Nations peoples, highlighting how their deep connection to the land is integral to their social and emotional wellbeing.
What is the significance of the Robin Winkler Lecture’s theme?
The theme, ‘Mental Health is Political,’ emphasized that Indigenous mental health cannot be separated from systemic injustices. It highlighted the role of racial justice and political activism in achieving collective healing and wellbeing.
What are the future plans for this international collaboration?
The scholars have committed to ongoing collaboration through joint research papers, shared grant applications, and continuous knowledge exchange programs to address Indigenous mental health and environmental justice.
