Celebrating Indigenous Literacy Day

Indigenous Literacy Day is a special day that celebrates the importance of literacy and education amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. In 2024, Indigenous Literacy Day is on September 4 and the theme is ‘Be A Proud Voice for Country’. 

Indigenous Literacy Day is organised by the Indigenous Literacy Foundation (ILF) and aims to close the literacy gap for Indigenous children in remote communities. As a celebration, it is important because it connects all of us to literacy resources that reflect Indigenous culture, language and stories so First Nations children can grow up with the same opportunities to learn, grow and succeed as other children across Australia. 

Across Queensland, schools, libraries and community centres are engaged in various activities to celebrate Indigenous Literacy Day. Below are some suggestions on ways you can be involved with your jarjums (children):  

• Read: Reading an age-appropriate book with your jarjums can be a great time to share and talk. Why not visit your local library and borrow one of the three books released this year on Indigenous Literacy Day: 
  
  ngayawanj bagan‑nggul, ngayawanj barra barra‑nggul (We belong to the land, We belong to the sea) and bagan, barra barra, mirriwarr (The Boys Who Found Their Way). Both books are by Vincentia High School students, with Kirli Saunders and Jaz Corr.  
  
  Yaltji Ngayuku Papa? (Where’s My Dog?) by Tjuntjuntjara Remote Community School students, with Stewart Ennis and Ange Leech. 

• Talk: Talk with Elders in your community and invite them to share their stories. These stories help jarjums connect with culture and language in meaningful ways.  

• Sing: Sing, dance and create art in local workshops and events. Why not register for this year's online Indigenous Literacy Day livestream event here. Immersing jarjums in enriching cultural practices will foster a sense of pride and identity, ally-ship and community. 

• Listen: While you are talking, reading, singing and playing with your jarjums, don’t forget to listen. Listening is important. Teaching your children to listen to stories, songs, and the experiences of First Nation Australians will help them to understand the place we all live in together. 

Spread your awareness using social media platforms about Indigenous Literacy Day and the importance of education equality; it is more than a celebration, it's a call to action. By supporting Indigenous children's education, we help build a future where every child, regardless of their background, can succeed. 

For more ideas and information about how you can support your jarjum’s health and wellbeing, through talking, reading, singing, playing and listening, and to keep up with all the exciting news about First 5 Forever, subscribe to our free monthly tips or visit a First 5 Forever session at your local library or Indigenous Knowledge Centre.

Remember, you are never too young to be a member of the library – you can join your jarjum up from birth.