Shelley Ray the founder of the Aboriginal Centre Trust explained that it is important not to

merely go through the motions and actually take time to acknowledge the traditional owners and
custodians of the land. She mocks the clichéd and unimpressive tributes that do not truly pay
respect to the traditional owners of the land. In this context, Shelley recommends that people
should learn about the distinctive traditional owners and their past, while considering personal
connection with the territory. This way, acknowledgments are more personal and genuine. This is
seen in how she addresses the right audience, talking about her personal tie to the Gadigal people
and the land, and other First Nations people in Australia. In this acknowledgment, Tauel Harper
associates the idea of the recognition of traditional custodians with the concept of the right to
vote. He adds that these are rights that are protected under the law, but are also rooted in
individual and family incidents. The opportunities for discussion and debate which Tauel had
within his home contributed to his feelings toward participation in a democracy.

Therefore, considering these points of view, my acknowledgment of country involves paying

respect to the indigenous peoples of the territory where I am situated, acknowledging their
ancestors, both living and deceased, and those yet to come. Cultural background has given me
the understanding of how to respect other people, live in a community, and share my opinions.
The right to participate in my case comes from the fact that I am an Australian citizen, and from
what my family taught me about discussing issues actively and with respect. I will use personal
acknowledgment to pay respect to the traditional custodians as a way of ensuring that our society
becomes more sensitive in the future.