One thing that has stuck out to me during my first few weeks here in Sydney has been the learning about the Aboriginal people and culture. In Australia, the Aboriginals are the Indigenous tribes that previously inhabited the country before it was colonized. Unfortunately (much like in the U.S.) these people were marginalized and have faced a long history of brutality and unfair treatment. There are multiple different tribes of Aboriginal people throughout the country of Australia, much like at home. However, I thought it was super interesting to see all of the ways in which they are honored and acknowledged. For example, once you land in Australia, before the beginning of each class, at the start of every presentation, on the menu’s of some restaurants/cafes, etc. you will see a certain phrase written. This is called the ‘Acknowledgement of State’ and pays respect to the Aboriginal tribes. Depending on where you are geographically in the country the tribe you reference may change, but broadly the acknowledgment is as follows: “I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands that we are meeting here today. I pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging and celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal peoples and their ongoing cultures and connections to the lands and waters of NSW” (NSW government website). I think it is great that a large part of Australian society pays their respect and is able to acknowledge the people that used to be on the land before it was taken over by colonizers. However, even though it may seem like a great thing, the Aboriginal people still face many hardships in society and are still viewed as unequal. I was shocked to learn that although Australian women were granted the right to vote in 1902, Aboriginal women were not granted that same right until 1967. Additionally, the Australian people recently voted against a proposal which would have allowed Aboriginal people to be recognized in the constitution. It has been super interesting to learn about this important cultural aspect in Australia, and gain more insight into both the ‘wins’ and ‘losses’ Aboriginal tribes have had to face throughout history. I have already learned so much about Aboriginal culture in just one month, so I am excited to continue this education and hopefully by the end of the semester I will be much more well-versed on this topic.