Page 22 Aboriginal Cultural Competence Do not pre-judge a person based on clothing, mannerisms, confidence or their communication. They may not be as concerned with their outward appearance as the\ wider population. An Aboriginal person’s status is not based on appearance, self-image, money, education, or employment. It is based on their community standing and social status. An Aboriginal person’s speech may switch between talking in mainstream English to Aboriginal English. Aboriginal English is an accepted language in most Aboriginal communities in Australia. It is a mixture of English, local slangs and key words in local Aboriginal dialects. Each community has its own version of Aboriginal English, but it is easily transferable between communities. Beware of preconceived attitudes and prejudice Under no circumstances should you mention to an Aboriginal person that they don’t look Aboriginal, nor ask them how much Aboriginal is in them. Saying “I would not have picked you as Aboriginal” can also be insulting. If a person identifies as an Aboriginal person, then this should never be questioned. Finally, although you should allow for these possible behaviours and preferences, don’t assume they apply to all Aboriginal people. Aboriginal people are as diverse as any other group and people who have had a career in an office setting are usually very adept at ‘code switching’ and may not be any different to other staff in their behaviour and preferences. “You don’t look Aboriginal”
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