March 20, 2024

UOW launches respectful language resource

Staff and students invited to multicultural celebration

Staff and students at University of Wollongong (UOW) will mark International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination with a multicultural celebration and the launch of the revamped ‘You Can’t Say That!’ booklet, a terminology guide to influence change and introduce appropriate language into the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander discourse.

The message of the day is “everyone belongs” - to embrace inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core values.

On Thursday 21 March from 12-2pm, the UOW community are invited to gather at the Duck Pond Lawn for a free BBQ with sausages from around the world.

Multicultural services ambassador Allyson Pazos from the Multicultural Communities Council of Illawarra will welcome guests to share in multicultural dance performances, weaving workshops, badge making and photo booths.  

At the lunchtime event, the UOW Indigenous Strategy Unit will launch ‘You Can’t Say That!’, a terminology guide to educate staff, students and the community on the impact of language. The booklet includes a range of terms that you shouldn’t say, others that require careful consideration, and the reasons why.

UOW Vice-President Indigenous Strategy and Engagement Jaymee Beveridge said the resource is an opportunity to engage in respectful relationships and learn more about each other, to nurture the ways in which we are connected while celebrating our differences.

“This book aims to be a vessel that shifts people from being unsure on what to say, to being courageous, respectful and educated allies. This edition addresses some emerging themes post the 2023 Voice Referendum and provides information on cultural safety and safety of culture,” Ms Beveridge said.

“Everyone has a right to cultural safety. Equally, everyone has a responsibility to contribute to it in their relationships, workplaces, communities and other environments.

“Active bystanders are valuable allies in combating racist behaviors, attitudes and systems and play a pivotal role in helping prevent incidents from occurring in the first place.”

Event details

Date: Thursday 21 March

Time: 12 – 2pm; speeches 12-12:45pm

Where: Duck Pond Lawn, UOW Wollongong campus