The UN has declared 2019 as the International Year for Indigenous languages. Next week between 27 May - 3 June 2019 is Reconciliation week in Australia. It's a time for the broader Australian community to reflect on their relationship with First Nations people. What I've been reflecting on is the importance that language reclamation plays in self determination. Language is used to convey thoughts, culture, beliefs, customs, traditions and history. Language is the bridge that connects us to our identity, heritage and ancestry. This week's episode is all about how language is related to self-determination and demands for self-determination at several different levels and in a number of inter-connected ways.

My books 365 Daily Affirmations and Chakras: A Beginner's Guide are available on Amazon.

If you require advice, training and consulting services on diversity, inclusion, equity, sexual harassment, intersectionality and cultural competency for your organisation, contact Phoebe at [email protected] or visit www.huemanequity.co.

To purchase Future Kind: Essays On Raising The Generation Our World Needs, head over to http://radiatepublishing.com/futurekind/

The Griot Podcast (@griotpodcast) is a social, political and spiritual commentary examining the deep issues confronting the world through the eyes of Phoebe Mwanza – The Griot (@afro_griot). Infused with humour and personal anecdotes, the Griot podcast helps us to understand, reflect on and confront the issues facing humanity through the art of storytelling.

The Griot podcast is published weekly on Spotify, iTunes and Soundcloud. Send any questions to [email protected]. Follow the pod on social media @griotpodcast and the host @afro_griot. Theme song by @kingdriga