Prof. Adam Shoemaker with Prof. Gary Foley – Part 2
from People of VU Hosted by Victoria University
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that the following program contains the names of people who have passed away. In this episode, after learning about Gary's early political activity in part one, we shift our focus to his influence on the arts scene and his realisation of theatre as a powerful medium for activism. We also explore the stories surrounding trailblazers such as Oodgeroo Noonuccal, Richard Bell, Chicka Dixon, John Newfong, and Uncle Jack Charles, and Gary's significant interactions with each of them. They each played pivotal roles in reshaping the landscape for First Nations people during the eighties and beyond—spanning literature, the arts, human rights and justice, media, and theatre. Gary’s networks and discovery of new platforms led to him co-writing and appearing in Basically Black – the first Aboriginal stage production in 1972. A decade after the establishment of Whitlam’s Aboriginal Arts Board, Gary also assumed the role of its first (Aboriginal) Director. He redirected funding exclusively towards Indigenous-led projects after the revelation that 50% of the resources were benefiting non-Indigenous individuals. These are just some of the incredible insights Gary shared about his life. Towards the end of the episode, Gary became known as "Professor Unprecedented” – a title that aptly captures the very essence of Professor Gary Foley. Links mentioned in this episode: https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/university-profile/moondani-balluk-indigenous-academic-unit/aboriginal-research-researchers/aboriginal-history-archive-aha
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