Concept Statement

The role of males in Aboriginal society has been significantly diminished as a result of the process of colonisation. This has contributed in a significant way to the breakdown and collapse of Aboriginal society and community life as it is today. The impact on Aboriginal males has been both negative and devastating, for example, chronic alcoholism, family violence, high imprisonment rates, deaths in custody, youth suicide and anti-social behaviour are just a few of the negative manifestations being witnessed today.

Indigenous males recognise the significance of the loss of self-esteem and self respect through alienation, loss of culture and country, and spiritual wellbeing. They have also recognised the importance of returning to, and revival of cultural and spiritual values that can provide a sense of identity and strength.

The empowerment of Indigenous males is crucial to the raising of self-esteem, quality of life, health status and spiritual well being. Indigenous males must take a leading role in improving their own health status and that of their communities. Community involvement, consultation and providing the opportunity for Indigenous males to define and take control of the issues that affect them is paramount to achieving positive and successful outcomes.

Frank Spry. 1998. 
Men's Health Policy Unit,
Territory Health Services. Darwin, Australia.

email Frank at spryf@miwatj.com.au

The 1st National Indigenous Male Health Convention was held at Ross River Homestead on the 4th & 5th October 1999 and provided an opportunity for Indigenous males from all over Australia to express their various perspectives and experiences of health and explore initiatives for the future.

The convention created a forum in which Indigenous males and other males working in the Indigenous male health arena could share their experiences and aspirations in the safety of an all male (and mostly Indigenous) environment.

The Convention Organising Committee are proud of the success of the convention.