The power of First Nations LGBTQIA+ representation in everyday life

Being First Nations and queer means belonging to a community that is full of blak joy, but it can also come with many hurdles. Hear Elisha Jacobs-Smith and Tanesha Bennell chat with Brooke about showing up authentically as yourself. Tanesha and Elisha share what it was like exploring their sexuality, coming out to family and community, and all that entails. Both are now activists within community and promote healing and well-being through connection with culture and chosen families - "If you can’t see it, you can’t be it”. Also find out how to be an ally in the queer First Nations space.

Elisha Jacobs-Smith and Tanesha Bennell

I really believe that if you can visually see that your identity belongs in a place then you're going to feel that you do belong there... But unfortunately, living in this colony, our visibility has been mostly erased.

Elisha Jacobs-Smith

On the second season of Noongar Wellbeing, Noongar youth share how they incorporate culture into their wellbeing, for self and community.

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Noongar Wellbeing is created and hosted by Brooke Collard.

If this episode raised anything for you, 13 YARN offers free and confidential support, available 24/7 from any mobile or pay phone. Call 13YARN on 13 92 76 and talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter.