An Absence of Mutual Respect - PDF
An Absence of Mutual Respect: Bäyŋu Ŋayaŋu-Ḏapmaranhamirr Rom ga Ŋorra
This detailed paper explores the understanding and communication gaps between Indigenous language speakers and legal personnel, and aims to help legal workers better understand the challenges their Indigenous clients face when navigating the justice system.
English (provides some Yolŋu Matha terminology)
This paper, published by ARDS in 2008, identifies the perceptions and misunderstandings that Yolŋu (Yolngu) people, whose first language is not English, have in relation to the mainstream legal system. In particular, it looks at 30 commonly used English legal words and how they are commonly interpreted by Yolŋu. It finds that there is a significant communication gap between Indigenous language speakers and legal personnel, with real life ramifications for Aboriginal people engaged in the justice system.
The report also explores the historical and contemporary context of the inter-play of traditional law and Australian Law.
OR