The symbol was created by Advocate of Aboriginal children, Conrad Morris, who held the belief and passion for creating a symbol of safety for Aboriginal children that allows them to have a voice and connection to their culture.
“I often asked myself why we don’t have a safety symbol for Aboriginal children and young people, something they could call their own and be reminded they have a right to feel culturally safe and empowered.”
The name Nunga Oog was created as part of a conversation with Aboriginal children where Conrad was able to understand what symbol connected with these children and why. Nunga Oog is related back to the name ‘Nunga Warrior’, suggested to Conrad by one of the children because a warrior looks after their own.
The story of why Nunga Oog was created and the impact of having a symbol that Aboriginal children can hold onto as their own was something the artists that Conrad worked with strongly understood, specifically Artist David Booth.
“Aboriginal symbols and art are a way of teaching and communicating and have been used for thousands of years. It was awesome to hear the younger generation’s stories and how they see and feel their connection to culture and country.”
To read more about the introduction of Nunga Oog and its impact on Aboriginal children and communities, click the link here.
[Image from Office of the Guardian for Children and Young People]