Briggs features in Victorian government campaign before Treaty legislation

High profile rapper and Yorta Yorta man Adam Briggs is one of those tapped by the Victorian government to appear in a campaign in the run-up to Australia’s first-ever Treaty legislation.

It was put together by Clemenger BBDO Melbourne.

Research shows many Victorians feel they know little about their state’s Aboriginal heritage or Aboriginal affairs in general.

They also feel uncomfortable asking questions for fear of offending or appearing ignorant and disrespectful.

Deadly Questions provides a platform for Victorians to get much-needed answers.

Briggs signed on to provide these by text or email, along with Hawthorn player Jarman Impey, Richmond Tigers AFLW player Natarsha Bamblett, and elders Aunty Pam Pederson, Aunty Joy Murphy and Uncle Kevin Coombs OAM.

Among the questions already posed on the website are: “What can we do to bridge the gap between our two cultures?”; “Do you prefer Aboriginal or Indigenous?”; ”Why can’t Aboriginal people get over the past?” and “Is being Aboriginal just the colour of your skin?”

Says Josh Smith, executive director at Aboriginal Victoria and a Dunghutti man: “For us, and for Aboriginal Victorians, this campaign represents hope.

“Hope for change. Hope for recognition. And importantly, hope that we can move forward as a state and as a nation united.

“Never before has there been a forum like this to provide a deep understanding of Aboriginal cultures, and we look forward to joining Victorians in a conversation that needs to be had.”

In the meantime, Briggs has been displaying his rapping style to great effect.

He was part of the “Locked Up” Dreamtime At The G performance with Marliya – the Gondwana Indigenous Children’s Choir, Felix Riebl of Spinifex Gum Project and Senator Patrick Dodson.

He also headlined the first ever Bad Apples Music House Party, shutting down Canberra with Nooky and Tasman Keith.

Additional sets were by Birdz, Omar Musam, Alice Skye and Kobie Dee.

“Alright… alright… Where do you want us next?” It was Briggs’ turn to pose the question.