Episode 5: Indigenous Literacy Day and a reading of I Saw We Saw | Kids, Culture, Community

Episode Description

In this episode of Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, we celebrate Indigenous Literacy Day — a national day that honours the rich stories, cultures, and languages of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, Strength in Our Stories – For Now and Future Generations, is a reminder that languages and cultures are alive, strong and thriving, and that sharing language and stories with children and adults across Australia helps ensure they continue for generations to come.

Eastern Arrernte and Gurindji woman Dakoda Lally hosts this special episode, reading I Saw We Saw — a beautiful book created by Yolŋu students at Nhulunbuy Primary School in North East Arnhem Land. Developed through the Indigenous Literacy Foundation’s Community Publishing Program, the story was crafted in both English and Dhaŋu, a Yolŋu Matha language, with guidance from Yolŋu Elders and support from Ann James and Ann Haddon. With its vibrant illustrations and bilingual storytelling, I Saw We Saw opens a window into Yolŋu Country and culture through the eyes of children.

Dakoda also reflects on the significance of Indigenous Literacy Day, held each year on the first Wednesday of September — a day of listening, learning and celebrating the incredible diversity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages and stories.

Keep the conversation going—follow and share this podcast episode to amplify the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities.

This artwork was created to visually represent Kids, Culture, Community – SNAICC Yarns, a podcast by SNAICC – National Voice for our Children, dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities.

At the heart of the artwork is a central motif drawn directly from the SNAICC Marulu design – a symbolic anchor that represents SNAICC’s identity, purpose, and vision. This central element grounds the piece, reflecting SNAICC’s leadership in advocating for the rights, wellbeing, and futures of our children.

Surrounding this are three figures, symbolising a community in conversation. These figures represent not only the act of yarning, but the diversity of voices – children, families, Elders, leaders, and community members – who will be heard through the podcast. The figures are encircled by layered soundwaves that ripple outward and inward, capturing both the expression of voice and the act of deep listening.

These soundwaves reflect how stories, knowledge, and lived experiences are shared, received, and echoed across communities – from grassroots voices to national conversations. The design intentionally shows sound as both something that travels outward to inform and inspire, and something that returns inward to strengthen identity, connection, and culture.