My Son’s Skin is NOT a Weapon

As my son approaches his 18th birthday, I find myself grappling with a mix of pride and fear. I want him to embrace his adulthood with confidence and joy, yet I can’t shake the concern that his identity as a Blak young man might affect how he’s perceived and treated. Each conversation about the world and his place in it carries a weight – one that I wish didn’t exist.

In my work, I channel these genuine fears into something tangible, reflecting on how one misstep could have lasting consequences, not just for him, but for our family. The reality is that, despite society’s promises of equality, the statistics in areas like health, education, and justice tell a different story. As Aboriginal people, we’re often told how we should behave to fit in, but these conversations are a stark reminder of the disparities that persist.

Through all this, my hope is to equip my son with the wisdom to navigate a world that doesn’t always see him as equal, while also encouraging him to strive for his dreams and live his life fully.