“The Australian Community is in mourning today from the passing of Dr Marika, a widely respected Indigenous leader from Arnhem land,” Senator Crossin said.
Date: 13 May 2008
“The Australian Community is in mourning today from the passing of Dr Marika, a widely respected Indigenous leader from Arnhem land,” Senator Crossin said.
Dr Marika was a Rirratjungu woman, and passionate about Indigenous education, especially Both Ways education which embraced both Indigenous and Western education.
In recognition for her extensive work in education, she received an honorary Doctor of Education from Charles Darwin University in 2007, was named Territorian of the Year and the NT’s Australian of the Year in 2006.
She served as a Director of Reconciliation Australia, and Director of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies.
“ Dr Marika was a tireless advocate for her people’s needs. She balanced government and industry policies with maintaining a strong sense of culture. This was the essence of her being and her proud identity.
“She was a firm believer in Both Ways education, and seamlessly moved between Western and Indigenous culture. The Australian community has lost a passionate education leader,” Senator Crossin said.
Senator Crossin lived at Yirrkala in the early 80’s and was neighbour for three years to Dr Marika and her family.
Senator Crossin and her family are deeply saddened at the loss of their close friend, neighbour and colleague.