Out Proud 'n' Blak

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Out Proud ‘n’ Blak: Stories of resilience and strength

Australian Aboriginal ​Rainbow Elders’ experiences of discrimination and perspectives to advance culturally safer services within Australian health care contexts.

There is currently an absence of research exploring Aboriginal Rainbow Elders’ experiences of discrimination, ageism and racism when accessing health care services. Approximately 70% of Indigenous LGBTQIA+ persons experience discrimination and marginalisation across their lifetime; this can be particularly pronounced when accessing  health care services. Out Proud 'n' Blak is an exploratory qualitative research project which addresses the need for research focused on Aboriginal Rainbow Elders’ experiences of the Australian health care context.​

Using the power of story, we hope to improve the health outcomes of Aboriginal Rainbow Elders and ensure that health care is  delivered in culturally and  spiritually safe environments.

Project Aims:
  • To give voice to Aboriginal Rainbow Elders’ experiences of discrimination, ageism and racism experienced within health care practices.
  • To consult Aboriginal Rainbow Elders on how health care services can be more inclusive and safer for their community.

Participants’ personal stories and journeys with the Australian health system have been used to inform the development of recommendations to improve health care experiences for Aboriginal Rainbow Elders. These recommendations are a practical resource that can be utilised by relevant stakeholders to better support the needs of, and address the challenges faced by, Aboriginal Rainbow Elders in Australian health care contexts. For more information, and to download the  recommendations, see our resource kit below.

Resource Kit

Resources for ACCHSs, Aboriginal health peak bodies and non-Indigenous specific health services/organisations.

  • This guide presents recommendations grounded in the valuable lived experience insights of ten Aboriginal Rainbow Elders and an Aboriginal Rainbow Elders' governance group. These insights aim to foster a safer and more inclusive environment for Aboriginal Rainbow Elders within Victorian healthcare settings. Access here.

  • This pamphlet outlines seven essential recommendations identified by Victorian-based Aboriginal Rainbow Elders, with support from the Rainbow Elders governance group. These recommendations are designed to guide healthcare organisations and practitioners in enhancing healthcare environments for Aboriginal Rainbow Elders in Victoria. The pamphlet is formatted for convenient use: print and fold as indicated. Access here.

  • This poster showcases seven key recommendations developed by Aboriginal Rainbow Elders, with support from the Aboriginal Rainbow governance group. These recommendations are grounded in valuable lived experience insights and aim to improve healthcare provision for Aboriginal Rainbow Elders in Victoria. The poster serves as a visual reference tool for healthcare organisations and practitioners, encapsulating essential guidance for creating more inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare environments. Access here.

  • Photograph of Aboriginal Rainbow Elders from the Out Proud ‘n’ Blak research project. The photo can be displayed in health services and health organisation to make health services more welcoming and inclusive for Aboriginal Rainbow Elders. Permission from the Aboriginal Rainbow Elders and photographer has been provided to display this image. Access here.

  • Out Proud 'n' Blak is an exploratory, Aboriginal-led qualitative research project that addresses the need for research focused on the experiences of Aboriginal Rainbow Elders when attending health care services. This research paper explores the stories of 10 Aboriginal Rainbow Elders, their experiences of discrimination, and highlights their perspectives on how to advance culturally safer services within Australian health care contexts. Access article here.

  • Acces article here.