Legacy, Resistance, and the Power of Community

Black Magic Woman with Mundanara Bayles

I yarn with proud Widjabul Wia-bal woman Larissa Baldwin-Roberts — a lifelong community organiser, strategist, and changemaker. From growing up in Lismore surrounded by stories of resistance and survival, to leading major campaigns on climate, justice, and rights, Larissa shares how her family’s legacy shaped her political thinking and commitment to grassroots action.

We explore the aftermath of the Voice referendum, the threats facing Treaty processes, and the urgent need to reframe how we organise, persuade, and protect First Nations rights on our own terms. Larissa reflects on the lessons passed down from her father and community Elders, the role of strategic activism, and why self-determination doesn’t need government permission.

With deep insights into the political moment we’re in, this episode also shines a light on Indigenous-led leadership, featuring reflections on the work of Aunty Mary Graham and the power of Aboriginal logic and philosophy.

🖤💛❤️

Resources & Links

The BlackCard – Cultural Education and Training
Founded by Aunty Mary Graham and Dr Lilla Watson.

• https://www.theblackcard.com.au/

Passing the Message Stick
A research project led by First Nations campaigners, including Larissa Baldwin-Roberts, focused on how to shift public attitudes toward First Nations justice.

• https://passingthemessagestick.org.au/

GetUp!
A progressive movement Larissa previously led — involved in campaigns on justice, climate, and Aboriginal rights.

• https://www.getup.org.au/

Voice Referendum – Resources and Reflections

• The Guardian – Referendum coverage and analysis:
  https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/voice-to-parliament

• Australian Human Rights Commission – Statement on the Voice:
  https://humanrights.gov.au/about/news/voice-parliament

Yoorrook Justice Commission (VIC)
Victoria’s Truth-Telling Commission

• https://yoorrookjusticecommission.org.au/

Truth and Treaty Processes (QLD & NT)

• Queensland Truth-Telling and Treaty:
  https://statementfromtheheart.com/treaty/qld/

• Northern Territory Treaty Process:
  https://www.treaty.nt.gov.au/

Website: www.blackmagicwoman.com.au

Follow us on Instagram - @blackmagicwomanpodcast

The Black Magic Woman Podcast is hosted by Mundanara Bayles and is an uplifting conversational style program featuring mainly Aboriginal guests and explores issues of importance to Aboriginal people and communities. Mundanara is guided by Aboriginal Terms of Reference and focusses more on who people are rather than on what they do.

If you enjoyed this episode, please ‘Subscribe’ on Apple Podcasts or ‘Follow’ on your Spotify app and tell your friends and family about us! If you’d like to contact us, please email, [email protected]

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.