Redefining the gap in Aboriginal health: from deficit to cultural connection

Abstract

This article is written from the perspectives of a Yuwaalaraay/Gamilaraay cultural knowledge holder and a Yuin Djirringanj cultural knowledge holder from New South Wales, Australia. It explores the concept of cultural health, and the need to shift towards centring culture in every aspect of Aboriginal health and wellbeing. The three elements of cultural health are discussed as Country which includes lands, waters, skies, and all entities within; people, and their freedom, and ability to express and maintain continuing connections to culture and Country; and culture which encompasses identity, language, and knowledges, and is maintained and strengthened through active connection to Country, and cultural practices. Cultural health is out of balance due to invasion and ongoing colonisation which translates to the differences in health and social outcomes we see represented in ‘the gap’, fails to acknowledge or centre our cultural health, and remains a challenge in making significant progress in health and social outcomes. It is reflected in many of the unmet or receding targets. To improve Aboriginal health and wellbeing, data exploring the different aspects of ‘the gap’ in cultural health from a strength-based approach, as opposed to the gap in deficit and disease is required.