In a world dominated by Western philosophies hear three extraordinary Blak thinkers in conversation. Victoria Grieve-Williams will speak to the concept of Makarrata, a peacemaking process after a conflict, which begins with truth-telling. Dr Gregory Phillips established the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Healing Foundation and has a PhD in Psychology. Uncle Jim Everett, puralia…

These amazing Blak women are blazing a path in their creative practices, with hard work, new approaches and grit. Let them tell it how it is.  With Liza-Mare Syron, Melanie Mununggurr-Williams, Marie Munkara. Moderated by Julia Hurst.   Presented in partnership with The Stella Prize. Supported by RMIT Indigenous Education and Engagement.

Our panellists work in a variety of genres and have vastly different styles. So how do they create? This session will delve into the how, when, where and most importantly why writers write. With Drew Hayden Taylor (NZ), Raelee Lancaster, Laniyuk. Moderator: Bridget Caldwell. Presented in partnership with Writers Victoria. Supported by RMIT Indigenous Education…

The meek might inherit the world, but the bold are going to ensure there is an equitable world to inherit. Hear them talk about the things that matter now. With Tarneen Onus, Georgia Mae and Carissa Lee. Moderator Nayuka Gorrie.   Presented in partnership with the Emerging Writers’ Festival. Supported by RMIT Indigenous Education and…

What is it like to have your life captured within the covers of a book? Or on stage, for all to see? These two autobiographical storytellers share some of the experiences of their (extraordinary) lives. With Richard Frankland, Stan Yarramunua. Moderator: Lenka Vanderboom. Supported by RMIT Indigenous Education and Engagement.

Victoria is embarking on a Treaty process – the first State to do so. How do writers from other states respond – in a creative way – to the idea of a Treaty? We’ve asked some of our most lyrical and expressive poets and writers to pen their responses. With Ali Cobby Eckermann, Uncle Jim…

We welcome you to the Blak & Bright 2019 Official Opening, including a Welcome to Country, ceremonial song with James Henry, and speeches. This will be followed by our opening event, in which hosts Daniel Browning and Evelyn Araluen discuss and review some of the latest, and some of the greatest, Blak books. Hear excerpts…

Blaktivists vs Blakademics argue the toss. Should Australia Day happen on 26 January – or not – and why? It’s a serious topic but we’ve thrown in a dollop of Blak humour. With Nayuka Gorrie, Yvette Holt, Liza-Mare Syron and Jason Tamiru. Moderator Gregory Phillips. Presented in partnership with Melbourne Writers Festival and the Wheeler…