NEWS AND EVENTS

Latest Arena Journal focuses on the Intervention
12 months since the beginning of the NT intervention, much soul searching and some fundamental reflection is taking place on black / white relations and the future of Aboriginal communities and culture. The latest issue of Arena Journal focuses on Aboriginal Australia, with 4 outstanding essays from Australian and international experts. Order a copy by calling Arena on 9416 0232.

17 July - Aug 16, A Time Like This - A Koori Perspective - Exhibition Launch
2008 marks a centenary of non-Indigenous women's franchise in Victoria. A new body of work by artists Lorraine Connelly-Northey and Bindi Cole in collaboration with curator Jirra Lulla Harvey re-assesses the suffrage movement from a Koori perspective. "Australian politics, art and ethnography have presented a distorted image of Aboriginal womanhood. This project has been about us reclaiming agency over our own representation," says Harvey. The photographic series and sculptural works will be launched as a part of the commemorative exhibition, A Time Like This, which will run from July 17 - August 16 at the VCA Margaret Lawrence Gallery, 40 Dodds Street, Southbank.

July 31-Aug 3, Message Sticks Indigenous Film Festival
Film-makers present a snapshot of Aboriginal life in a post-apology Australia.
At the Melbourne Museum - Free entry to all sessions! Call 131 102.

9 August, Lex Wooten Solidarity Fiesta
Lex Wooten, the man still facing charges for involvement in the Pal Island riots that followed the death in custody of Mulrunji Doomadgee in 2004, is coming to Melbourne for a speaking tour. Join MC Shiralee Hood, and bands The Conch and The Grenadines to support Lex and listen to him speak. Finger food served and bar service available. From 7pm at the Maritime Union Hall, 54 Ireland St, West Melbourne. $20 / $10 (to raise funds for the tour and assist with the campaign). Organised by Indingeous Social Justice Association, Melbourne. Contact 9388 0062 for details.

12-13 September, National Indigenous Legal Conference & Ball
Melbourne was voted to host this prestigious event, which has become a highlight in the calendars of many legal professionals working in Native Title, social justice, human rights and cultural heritage. If you are a Lawyer, Law student, Barrister, Judge, Academic, Indigenous Community Elder or work in Local Government, at an Aboriginal Legal Service or Land Council, Native Title Representative Body or Justice Department, then don't miss this important event. See www.tarwirri.com.au for details.