Say Our Name — Australian South Sea Islanders | HASS, English, Science Years 7–8

Calling a person or group of people by their correct name shows you recognise and respect them. It can also be a way to honour or remember someone — think about when you or your team win an award, and your name is read aloud at assembly!

The opening of Say Our Name at Queensland Museum Kurilpa in August 2024 marks 30 years since the Australian Commonwealth Government recognised Australian South Sea Islander (ASSI) peoples as a disadvantaged group with their own history, culture and identity. Six years later, the Queensland Government formally recognised the contributions and achievements of ASSIs in a Recognition Statement. As a result, a whole generation has grown up being able to say with confidence who they are and where they come from.

But do you know who Australian South Sea Islanders are?

Curriculum Links
 This resource is aligned with Australian Curriculum HASS. English and Science, Years 7–8

Learning objectives

• understand the values of Australian society and how/why these change
• examine the effect Australia’s political and legal systems had on people in the past
• explain the significance of Australian South Sea Islanders (ASSIs)
• develop questions to frame an inquiry
• explore how diverse groups of people form a social identity.

Success Criteria

•  contribute to discussions about Australia’s national identity
• observe and discuss the significance of primary and secondary sources
• contribute to discussions about the significant impact ASSIs have had on Australian society
• scrutinise sources using key questions to interrogate origin, purpose/context and perspectives
• write, speak or sign a short reflection to summarise understanding of ASSI cultural identity.