'Sing for the Black – From the Act to Treaty' with Uncle Joe Geia
The 2024 oration theme 'Sing for the Black – From the Act to Treaty' showcased the creative and intellectual work of QUT PhD candidate Uncle Joe Geia through both concert and conversation, giving expression to Carumba’s core principles of power, pride, belonging, joy, justice and possibility that is found in Black Knowing. Uncle Joe Geia is a proud Guugu Yimidhirr Kaurareg man, renowned singer, songwriter, guitarist, yidaki player and influential figure in the development of contemporary Indigenous music. He has been writing and performing for over four decades and writes music of bravery and beauty, telling the story of Aboriginal life in Australia, the quest for justice and belonging, history, family and love. The Meanjin Oration of 2024, convened on the eve of the UNDRIP anniversary, represented a critical intervention in advancing the Queensland Treaty process, which at present remains contested in the aftermath of the referendum.
Panel discussion
Following the oration, Carumba Institute Executive Director Professor Chelsea Watego led a panel discussion featuring impactful insights from influential Indigenous Australian leaders Uncle Graham Brady, Aunty Cheryl Buchanan, Uncle Phillip Mills and Uncle Joe Geia.
They emphasised the enduring spirit and resilience of Indigenous Australians and highlighted the importance of song, dance and art as vital forms of communication and cultural expression.
Meanjin Oration powers Black Knowing through song
The power of Black Knowing through stories and song has been elevated in a moving QUT event featuring leading First Nations songwriter Uncle Joe Geia, a proud Guugu Yimidhirr Kaurareg man.
The 2024 Meanjin Oration, 'Sing for the Black – From the Act to Treaty', told the story of Aboriginal life in Australia through song on the eve of the 17th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
