Paper short abstract:

This paper presents part of the research I have conducted for my DPhil in Anthropology at the University of Oxford, and the perspectives I have developed on how to decolonise anthropological research as an Aboriginal Australian working for and with other Indigenous peoples.

Paper long abstract:

Anthropological methodologies and methods have long been criticised by Indigenous communities. "Here come the anthros" is a phrase I have heard on a number of occasions from other Indigenous community members when reflecting on the obtrusive and sometimes exploitative experiences of their past, and that of their ancestors. It is with this understanding that I have needed to be critical and reflexive in planning my anthropological research for my DPhil at the University of Oxford. My identity as an Aboriginal Australian has had a significant influence on my thinking and approaches to this project. I have had to occupy many roles during my study and fieldwork and have had to adapt my approaches to fulfil both the goals of my research, and my socio-cultural responsibilities as an Indigenous person. Researchers contemplating their positionality and being reflexive in their practices is one of the biggest tools for conducting decolonising research. However, it is crucial that this decolonisation begins with the self, and then with the research as an anthropological endeavour. The necessity of this process is not often taught at an institutional level, reflecting (and perpetuating) the enduring power imbalances between researchers and the Indigenous communities with whom research is conducted. What this highlights is the need for research for, with and by Indigenous academics, and the need for allies in the academy who recognise the importance of decolonisation and diversity within anthropology.