Wama Wangka: talking about alcohol
The Wama Wangka program began in 2018 when the Martu Leadership Program team decided that they wanted to form a Martu version of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Martu decided activities should be run on Martu country and to be based on Martu cultural knowledge and identity.
Larger on-country Wama Wangka (WW) camps have had to be postponed due to COVID-19, however, Martu have been actively engaged in a number of smaller WW activities.
In Jigalong, Anthony Gibbs (AG), Lindsay Crusoe, Heather Samson, Phillipa Charles went out on-country with two youths for two days and nights. They camped at Kuapana and spent the time talking about wama (alcohol), reconnecting with country and discussing how to be strong.
A number of other day and overnight trips have occurred with over twenty Martu from Jigalong engaging in the program. Martu have also been involved in a number of workshops at the BHP Shed in community: brainstorming how they want the program to run. Clifton Girgiba, one of the main Martu drivers behind WW program, is currently south of Perth and is calling in regularly to engage in these workshops.
Clifton also called into a half-day session held in Parnngurr involving thirteen Martu. Together they discussed the program and the importance of building knowledge and strength in culture, history, language and families. Through this program, Martu will strengthen their identity and connection to country and create new pathways for the next generations.
