We recently had the chance to sit down with Shirley Crane, an educator from Katherine, NT. Shirley grew up in far north Queensland and has spent a large part of her career working with remote Aboriginal communities. Her deep understanding of Aboriginal culture gives her a unique perspective on the challenges these communities face today.
Humbugging is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander slang term to describe when people demand money from those who have earned it, often leaving the earner with nothing. Shirley explains that this practice is a big hurdle to economic progress for Aboriginal people. Imagine working hard and then being expected to give away your earnings to numerous relatives — that’s the reality for many. It’s easy to see why this can kill the motivation to work, trapping people in a cycle of dependency.
While cultural practices are deeply rooted, Shirley believes change is necessary. She argues that without addressing and evolving these practices, closing the socio-economic gap will be nearly impossible. It’s about balancing respect for cultural heritage with the need for progress. Communities need to have open discussions about these issues to find solutions that work for everyone.
Shirley also emphasises the power of community initiatives. Educational programs and local projects can play a huge role in fostering understanding and driving change. It’s all about starting conversations and working together towards a common goal. By bringing these topics into the open, there’s a better chance of creating positive, lasting change.
Shirley's insights are a powerful reminder of the complexities faced by Aboriginal communities across Australia. We hope Shirley’s perspectives inspire you to think, discuss and take action. Be sure to watch our video series for a deeper dive into these important issues.
