Oursness

Bob Randall, a Yankunytjatjara elder and traditional owner of Uluru (Ayer's Rock), explains the Aboriginal understanding of land ownership as one of shared responsibility and kinship with the environment. Sharing memories from his childhood in the bush (before being forcibly removed by Australian police), Bob describes the profound joy that comes from living in connection with all of life.

Bob Randall
Bob Randall is a Yankunytjatjara Elder and a traditional owner of Uluru (Ayers Rock). Bob is one of the Stolen Generation of the Aboriginal people, taken from his family at the age of seven. Throughout his life, Bob has worked as a teacher and leader for Aboriginal land rights, education, community development and cultural awareness. In the early ‘70s, Bob's song "Brown Skin Baby (They Took Me Away)" became an anthem for the Aboriginal people. He is the author of two books: his autobiography Songman and a children's book, Tracker Tjginji. He is also the subject of the recent documentary film, Kanyini. Full bio and links »
Oldest | Newest
rmontz's picture
6 weeks 6 days ago
Rita Montgomery

This is a most interesting interview. What a wonderful world view. We in the western world (USA) mainstream society, missed so much by being disconnected from community and nature. I love how Bob describes his relationship with these. Can we get this back?
Indigenous peoples have been done such a disservice in being taken from their homes at a tender age. I have personally known many such folks and it is not only traumatic, but has in many cases caused the dissolution of their culture and wisdom teachings. I celebrate you Bob for keeping this understanding alive and sharing it with us/me
Thanks