Learning from Alinta
Learning from Alinta, is an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander educational resource, designed to help people following a tragedy or trauma in the community.
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Learning from Alinta is the story of a young Aboriginal woman, her family and community. A few days before she turned 21, Alinta tragically took her own life. Alinta was the mother of Levi who is almost 2 years old at the time, and this is a story of how those left behind can heal together.
The 50 minute DVD and supporting website (www.learningfromalinta.com.au) is based on the story of people healing from a tragic event, and by sharing Alinta’s story.
As a result of Alinta’s death, Spirit Dreaming, an Aboriginal owned and managed health and wellbeing organisation facilitated gatherings and workshops to support individuals identified by the family to be most at risk or greatly affected by this traumatic event.
Mel Brown, Spirit Dreaming’s Director said that following this event, it became evident that the way in which the Aboriginal community handled this trauma was by walking in two worlds.
“The community confidently combined the needs of our Aboriginal culture in relation to ‘our sorry business’, together with the needs and requirements of the non-Aboriginal community following the death of a person,” Ms Brown said.
“Alinta’s family also felt that this is a story that should be shared with other families and young people, as it gives hope and direction to those of us who may have been affected by other traumatic events that require a community response.
“While this is an Aboriginal story, the educational value of this story is one of positive community responses to a tragic event, and can be used across any community.”
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In loving memory of
Alinta
Spirit Dreaming, the NSW Government Department of Family and Community Services and beyondblue have supported the development of the DVD and website.
beyondblue CEO Kate Carnell AO said research shows that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults are almost three times as likely to experience high or very high levels of psychological distress.
“The rate of suicide among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is almost three times higher than that of non-Indigenous Australians,” Ms Carnell said.
“We hope supporting the Learning for Alinta education resources will encourage people to take action for support and healing if they need it.
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Funded by NSW Human Services, Community Builders