Cirrus@Austlit

Editor's note:
These are the writings from a handful of Aboriginal writers, who belong
to a proud and beautiful culture. All have been written with honesty.
As within all societies there are elements of challenge and concern.
As editors we believe that is the key and reason of life, for all humans.

It would be a great further outcome of this edition, for the wider
reading audience to gain more insight of Aboriginal Australia today.
The writers featured here, of all ages, articulate clearly their hopes and
dreams, and the stumbling blocks that life presents. As Aboriginal
people we are well aware of the troubles in our society, and the
traumas inflicted from past Governmental policy.

As Aboriginal writers we are very concerned about the literacy rates
within our families. There are no books, newspapers or magazines sold in
outback stores. We will hope that some editions of A Handful of Sand
make it back to the remote communities and outstations.

As an essential part of the Northern Territory Emergency Response
Intervention signs concerning the prohibition of alcohol and
pornography have now been erected along some of the best landscapes
available in the Northern Territory. We are thrilled the Aust Govt has
spent thousands of dollars to promote literature (however absurd)
in all NT remote areas.

After all, it will mostly be Aboriginal children who will grow up reading
these signs on their doorstep.

Epigraph:
the pen is mightier than the sword
but the finger in the sand is mightier than that
in its own way

Aunty Ruby Langford Ginibi
(1934-2011)
RIP