Defence Indigenous Engagement: Advancing Reconciliation or Militarised Inclusion?

Indigenous peoples have a long and fraught history of military service in Anglo-settler societies (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the US). In the 20th century, they contributed human power and skills to settler militaries to fight wars that significantly shaped settler nations and identities. Nevertheless, the Indigenous military contribution was overlooked or denied because Indigenous peoples were not considered citizens or were banned from enlisting in the military. This exclusion was instrumental in further marginalising Indigenous peoples from settler national societies and identities. Indigenous peoples have long been advocating for the recognition of their service, securing some wins at the turn of the century. As the language of Reconciliation takes hold in Anglo-settler societies, commemorative establishments are paying more attention to the historical contribution of Indigenous people to Defence and the military is seeking to increase Indigenous military participation. Despite these efforts, commemoration remains selective and Indigenous retention in the military remains low and a key challenge of inclusion. This lecture explores the complex relationship between Indigenous peoples and the military, examining the historical context of exclusion and the contemporary efforts to recognise Indigenous service and increase participation. By analysing the challenges and opportunities of Indigenous military engagement, this presentation interrogates whether Defence Indigenous engagement is a tokenistic act of militarised inclusion or if it can advance national reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.Speaker: Federica CasoChair: Beverley Loke© Australian National University 2024