1 The Mayi Kuwayu Study in Australia

Introduces the Mayi Kuwayu Study project led by the Australian National University, which aims to comprehensively investigate the health and well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. The background is the long-standing health inequalities and social challenges faced by Indigenous communities, with persistent issues despite numerous government policies. The study is Indigenous-led, with a diverse team employing a national longitudinal research approach and recruiting participants through various methods to ensure sample diversity. It has developed targeted measurement tools, emphasizes data governance, and ensures ethical standards and participant rights.

2 Racism and the Health of Indigenous Peoples

Delves into the profound impact of racism on the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia. Since the invasion of European colonizers in the late 18th century, Indigenous peoples have experienced disasters such as land dispossession, cultural destruction, and population decline. The "protection" and "assimilation" policies from the 19th to the early 20th century led to the "Stolen Generations," causing long-term psychological trauma and identity crises. Although the Australian government began reflecting and taking measures from the mid-20th century, such as abolishing the White Australia Policy, enacting the Racial Discrimination Act, and recognizing Indigenous land rights, racial discrimination remains deeply entrenched. The Mayi Kuwayu Study reveals that exposure to interpersonal racism worsens the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and reduces cultural participation. Everyday discrimination is a significant factor contributing to psychological distress, and such discrimination is widespread in social structures and daily life, including unfair treatment in education, employment, healthcare, and media stereotypes. Australian society must address the deep-seated impact of racism on Indigenous peoples through legal policies, public education, culturally sensitive mental health services, and other measures, striving for genuine reconciliation and equality.

3 Culture and the Well-being of Indigenous Peoples

Explores the central role of culture in the well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, emphasizing that culture is not only the foundation of identity but also a key determinant of quality of life. The Mayi Kuwayu Study team developed a cultural measurement tool through literature review and focus group discussions, covering six cultural domains: connection to Country, knowledge and beliefs, language, family and community, cultural expression, and self-determination and leadership. These domains collectively form the core elements of Indigenous culture, with far-reaching impacts on individual and social well-being.

In terms of connection to Country, the deep bond between Indigenous peoples and the land is based not only on reliance on natural resources but also on respect for ancestral heritage and the preservation of traditional ways of life. This connection provides psychological and social support, enhancing their sense of belonging and cultural confidence. The knowledge and beliefs domain reflects the complex worldview and spiritual beliefs of Indigenous peoples, transmitted through art, rituals, and oral traditions, offering individuals a framework for meaning and spiritual support.

Language, as a key vehicle for cultural transmission, is crucial for the cohesion and cultural diversity of Indigenous communities. However, many Indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing and require measures for protection and revitalization. Family and community play central roles in providing emotional support and cultural transmission in Indigenous societies. Although historical policies have harmed the cohesion of families and communities, efforts are being made to repair these traumas and rebuild social capital.

Cultural expression, through diverse art forms such as visual arts, music, and dance, reflects Indigenous identity and creativity, significantly enhancing individual self-esteem and community solidarity. Self-determination is the core of achieving social justice and cultural autonomy, empowering Indigenous peoples in decision-making for personal lives and community affairs, thereby improving quality of life and social well-being.

The Mayi Kuwayu Study focuses on the positive role of cultural participation in enhancing Indigenous well-being and identifying and addressing the negative impacts of racism on Indigenous mental health. It aims to provide more comprehensive support for Indigenous communities, enhancing their happiness and quality of life.

4 Conclusion

Emphasizes the Mayi Kuwayu Study's in-depth analysis of racism issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, revealing the ongoing negative impact of racism on Indigenous mental health and well-being, as well as the importance of cultural participation in enhancing Indigenous well-being. The study highlights the need for policymakers to prioritize cultural sensitivity and community engagement while acknowledging the limitations of the research in terms of participant representativeness, data objectivity, and tool validation. Furthermore, the study demonstrates the action-oriented nature of academic research, emphasizing the importance of community member participation and knowledge translation, providing a framework for reflection and action to eliminate racism and promote social justice.