Advocating with pride and hope

Lyndell O’Connor says demonstrating strength and resilience in everyday actions can make a real difference for First Nations people.

Lyndell is co-Chair of the Queensland Law Society’s First Nations Legal Policy Committee; and Director of the Office of the Child and Family Official Solicitor, at the Department of Families, Seniors, Disability Services and Child Safety, in Townsville.

NAIDOC Week marks an important milestone in 2025 – 50 years of honouring Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, celebrates past achievements and the future ahead, empowered by young leaders. Proctor asked Lyndell for her thoughts about the future.

This year is the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC marking decades of elevating Indigenous voices. What achievements are you most proud of?

For me, the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC is a time to reflect on how far we have come with elevating and celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices.  Whilst there is still work to be done, we are moving in the direction of our voices not only being heard but being valued.  We have a long history of working towards justice and equality, from the 1967 Referendum to the Uluru Statement from the Heart.  These achievements highlight the resilience and strength of our communities and our allies.

There is growing recognition of the significance of our beautiful stories and knowledge.  Our voices are being amplified and shared with the world through art, music and storytelling, and this makes me so proud and hopeful. 

We have a responsibility to build on the work of those that have come before us.  We must draw on the strength of our ancestors to continue to use our voice, showing pride in our heritage and advocating for change. 

I am proud to be a part of the team at the Office of the Child and Family Official Solicitor where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices are heard, valued and respected.  We promote a culture where accessibility for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to achieve their aspirations connected to culture, community and kin is a priority.  Advocacy for the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is central to everything we do, and we are committed to always championing and upholding self-determination.

This year’s theme is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy – why should the next generations get involved in committees and public advocacy?

The next generation are the ones that will continue to build on the foundation for change, they will be able to take it to the next level.  Young people have so many strengths and positive ways to contribute, they bring fresh perspectives and innovation to deal with contemporary issues, and we welcome those things to the First Nations Legal Policy Committee.  Their ideas will shape our future, through the continuation of the work that has already been done to ensure our culture continues to thrive.

In our committee, we’re focused on empowering the next generation by building their confidence, leadership skills and networks. We want to ensure they connect with and learn from those who have relevant and valuable knowledge, so they’re prepared to continue driving change in our communities into the future.

I think it’s also important to recognise that progress often happens through the small acts of leadership people show within their families and communities. Even if you don’t have the chance to be part of committees or public advocacy, demonstrating strength, resilience, and care in your everyday actions can make a real difference.

NAIDOC Week is celebrated from 6-13 July.