Truth-telling, healing, and the power of reconnection: Reflections from the Stolen Generations

Dr Sharon Pittaway
Senior Consultant Associate

Working on the Link-Up Victoria project was an incredibly moving and enlightening experience. The program’s dedication to supporting members of the Stolen Generations as they reconnect with family, country, and culture brought into sharp focus the deep need for truth-telling and healing within Australia.

Stories of Resilience, Pain, and Hope

The consultations we conducted were filled with powerful stories of resilience, pain, and hope. Participants shared their struggles with identity and belonging, recounting how disconnection from family and culture had left many feeling adrift. For some, reconnecting was an emotional journey toward reclaiming their Aboriginal identity and finding a sense of place. Others were still grappling with the complexities of rediscovery, hesitant about where or how they fit in.

The Crucial Role of Truth-Telling

One particularly striking aspect of the project was the role that truth-telling played in this process. Truth-telling is more than recounting historical events; it involves acknowledging harm and validating lived experiences. For participants, sharing their stories within a safe and supportive space was both cathartic and educational. As one participant noted, “Sometimes we need to educate our own people about what happened to us, so they understand why we are where we are today.”

Healing Through Connection

Healing emerged as a theme intricately tied to connection. Reunions with family and visits to ancestral lands were pivotal moments of affirmation, enabling participants to reconnect with their roots and feel seen and accepted. Cultural activities—such as weaving, painting, and storytelling—further strengthened these connections, offering tangible ways to reclaim lost traditions and pass them on to future generations.

The Challenges of Reconnection

At the same time, the consultations revealed the challenges of navigating this journey. Many expressed feelings of uncertainty about approaching family or traditional communities, fearing rejection or judgment. Others spoke of the complexities of reconciling their upbringing with their heritage. One participant described this poignantly: “I grew up thinking as a white person. Learning I was Aboriginal turned my world upside down.”

The Transformative Power of Truth-Telling and Healing

This work reinforced for me the transformative potential of truth-telling and healing initiatives. Link-Up Victoria’s efforts demonstrate how reconnecting people to their families and cultural heritage can spark personal healing while contributing to broader societal reconciliation. These initiatives also highlight the ongoing need for resources, advocacy, and cultural safety to ensure all members of the Stolen Generations can access the support they need.

The Power of Connection

For me, this project was a humbling reminder of the power of listening, storytelling, and connection. As we continue the work of truth-telling, we take meaningful steps toward healing past wounds and building a future rooted in understanding and respect.