Shelley Rays and Tauel Harper’s in these videos emphasize the realistic practice of respecting the

indigenous people and acknowledging them as the owners of the land. Rays briefly notes that it
should be made personal and meaningful, and Harper writes it to be thankful to those who
looked after the land. But the videos also demonstrate a shared reluctance to properly recognize
Country. Rays also notes the feelings of concern to get it wrong and produce a general,
nonspecific comment. Harper also points out that there is a continuous fight for Indigenous
rights, even in the acknowledgment of the traditional ownership. This discomfort is intertwined
with the notion of “right to participate” discussed by Harper. Although acknowledging the
traditional owners is a common and proper practice, it should not mask the issue of real
engagement.

Here's my acknowledgement of Country that reflects these ideas:

Taking my ground on the indigenous territories of Australia. I would also like to pay my respect
to their ancestors and the custodians of the land where we are working today. My right to
participate is also based on respect and accountability. It arises from the opportunity to reside on
the territory that others tended for thousands of years. This right enjoins me to be actively
involved in the processes of reconciliation and a future where Indigenous people’s voices count.
This is just one point of view. I personally think that everyone should find own understanding of
Country and the right to vote. Understanding these relations, we will be able to go further beyond
recognizing Country and to engagement and action.