I always ask couples whether they would like to include an Aboriginal Acknowledgement of Country in their ceremony, with mixed responses. And sometimes it’s just a blank bewildered stare. I wonder if people understand what it’s actually about, so here’s a quick run down from my perspective as to the value of including one.
Lisaxx
Marriage is a momentous journey, often marked by extensive preparation and celebration. So much time, effort, and money goes into this one day that it’s worthwhile to think beyond what the wedding can do for you and consider how it could positively impact the world in the future. In Australia, the beauty of outdoor weddings, set in locales like wineries, beaches, and outback properties, offers a unique opportunity to honour the land and its traditional custodians, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
What is an Aboriginal Acknowledgement of Country?
An Aboriginal Acknowledgement of Country (AOC) is a respectful recognition of the original owners of the land. It typically involves one or two sentences acknowledging the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the land’s traditional custodians. This can be personalised to fit the voice and tone of your ceremony. It doesn’t necessarily have to be done by Aboriginal people and is typically performed by the celebrant in a wedding ceremony.
Why Include an AOC in Your Wedding?
In the context of a wedding ceremony, an AOC is small and simple, but in the broader context of promoting acceptance regardless of race, color, or creed, it’s a significant step towards reconciliation and creating a unified Australia. It reflects respect for diversity and acknowledges the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. Adding cultural acknowledgements such as this speaks of who you are as individuals and what you believe in. Additionally, it sets a precedent for guests, potentially inspiring them to adopt similar practices in their events.
The Role of the Celebrant
Typically, the wedding celebrant undertakes the responsibility of delivering the Acknowledgement of Country. The celebrant can guide couples on how to include an AOC and what to consider when crafting the message. The celebrant can help personalize the AOC if you wish. This involves researching the specific indigenous groups of the wedding location and potentially adding personal touches that resonate with the couple’s connection to the land. If desired, the celebrant can also suggest ways to incorporate traditional Aboriginal elements into the ceremony, such as music, art, or inviting an indigenous elder to participate. Through these efforts, the celebrant helps ensure that the AOC is a respectful, informed, and integral part of the wedding, contributing to a greater understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
Inclusivity in Wedding Ceremonies
Though the AOC primarily focuses on the relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians, couples can also consider acknowledging other cultures present in their ceremony. This may involve symbolically including cultures related to your own identity, or ones that are important to you. Inclusion fosters stronger personal relationships and demonstrates a commitment to cultural awareness and inclusivity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an Aboriginal Acknowledgement of Country in a wedding ceremony is a small but powerful gesture towards creating a more respectful, inclusive, and unified Australia. It encourages a broader societal shift towards recognizing and honoring the country’s rich cultural heritage.
