Traditional Healers of Central Australia: Ngangkari

(Paperback)

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Description

Traditional Healers of Central Australia contains unique stories, imagery and primary source material. Ngangkari are senior Aboriginal people authorised to speak publicly about Anangu (Western Desert language speaking Aboriginal people) culture and practices. The ngangkari speak directly to the reader, recording accurate, authorised information about their work in their own words.

The practice of traditional healing is still very much a part of contemporary Aboriginal society. The ngangkari currently employed at NPY Women s Council deliver treatments to people across a tri-state region of about 350,000 sq km, in more than 25 communities in SA, WA and NT. Acknowledged, respected and accepted, these ngangkari work collaboratively with hospitals and health professionals even beyond this region, working hand in hand with Western medical practitioners.

This new edition contains updated images and profiles of new ngangkari, extending on the original.

Author Bio

Ngaanyatjarra Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Women s Council Aboriginal Corporation was formed in 1980. The idea for a women's organisation arose from the South Australian Pitjantjatjara Land Rights struggle in the late 1970's. The members' determination to improve the quality of life for families in the NPY (Western Desert language) region drives the organisation.