Uncle Ray Jackson Tribute Show: Part 1

*Content Warning: This episode of Doin' Time contains audio images and discussion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who have died This special Doin’ Time program is the first part in a shining yearly tribute to the much-loved and honourable Uncle Ray Jackson, who died on April 23 2015. Uncle Ray was a Wiradjuri warrior who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and human rights for Aboriginal people affected by the so-called criminal justice system, and all people affected by state violence. A vocal and knowledgeable Deaths in Custody campaigner, and long-time President of the Indigenous Social Justice Association (ISJA), Uncle Ray received the prestigious French Human Rights medal, with the Australian state (despite its long history of atrocities) never allocating an award to him. Part two of this tribute with Uncle Ray’s daughter Carolyn Jackson and Professor Bronwyn Carlson will air in two weeks, on May 9 2022. Marisa speaks today with Joseph Pugliese, Uncle Ray’s friend, longtime activist, and editor of Doin Time’s recently featured book, Mapping Deathscapes: Digital Geographies of racial and Border Violence. Joseph gives a comprehensive introduction and historical context to Ray’s life and work, beginning with his trauma as a child of the stolen generations driving his burning desire to achieve social justice. Joseph highlights Uncle Ray’s extraordinary grasp and memory of complex legal cases, but importantly also the profound and heartfelt understanding he had for the human dimension of each and every case which makes his activism and legacy so powerful. Amongst the many topics discussed are his work in legislating family attendance for autopsies of Indigenous Deaths in Custody to ensure ceremony and respect, his strong history of trade unionism in Sydney, and his vast internationalist view of activism, from connecting with First Nations activists in North America to denouncing Israeli state violence in occupied Palestine. Tune in on Monday May 9 for part two of this special Uncle Ray Jackson Memorial program.