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One of the most striking features of language
used by Aboriginal people is the virtual absence
of the reason seeking question “why?”.
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The Intrusive “why?”
However, this may occur more in remote areas
rather than in urban situations. Non-verbal
actions, such as observation, are important for
finding out reasons for the actions of others.
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When communicating with Aboriginal people,
ensure you as the listener infer links between
statements.
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Go-betweens or Mediators
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The consultative process chosen in any location
will reflect the particular cultural context and
will, itself, be decided upon in consultation with
the Aboriginal community. The role of both
formal and informal representatives of the
Aboriginal communities must be recognised.
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An option sometimes used by agencies is
consultants and/or independent mediators.
Normally, an Aboriginal individual or
organisational consultancy may be available.
However, this process, and more importantly,
the successful consultant (whether Aboriginal
or not) will be most effective if the endorsement
of the community is obtained.
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• use of indirect eye contact which implies
respect in Aboriginal culture but disrespect
and possibly a “shifty” type of person in
non-Aboriginal cultures. However, the
advisability of using direct eye contact differs
from community to community and
individual to individual. The applicability of
this protocol will need to be determined in
particular cases. For instance in some
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• often considerable time delays (frequently
several days) between the initiation of
information and the imparting of such
information; and
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• the positive, non-awkward use of silence
which must not be interpreted as “they do
not understand” (e.g People are remaining
non-committal; waiting for consensus;
community support; listening.)
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Important aspects of Aboriginal communication
relate to non-verbal exchange of information.
Three key styles of non-verbal communication
are:
communities, direct eye contact may be
expected and accepted because you are
government employees.
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Avoid leading questions. In many interactions
Aboriginal people may not express a firm
opinion, even though they may hold one. They
may discuss a topic generally while gauging
others views, before stating their own. If
Aboriginal people find their views on a topic at
odds with others they often will tend to
understate their own. In minimising
confrontation and argument, the speaker leaves
open the possibility for further comfortable
discussion.
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Leading Questions
27
Pr o t o c o l s f o r Co n s u l t a t i o n a n d Ne g o t i a t i o n w i t h Ab o r i g i n a l Pe o p l e