1. Symbolic cohesion and interpretive freedom: Embodying unity in diversity through Warlpiri ngurra-kurlu and Indonesian Pancasila
- Author
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Curkpatrick, S, Susanto, H, Pawu, WJ, Curkpatrick, S, Susanto, H, and Pawu, WJ
- Abstract
Within contemporary Australian and Indonesian society, cultural and religious diversity is often celebrated as symbolic of broader liberal and pluralist identities. However, the interpretive traditions of Indigenous and other minorities are seemingly, rarely considered integral to shaping mainstream discourses on social cohesion. In this article, we explore two contexts of minority engagement with aspirations of unity in diversity, namely Warlpiri Australian formulations of kinship through ngurru-kurlu and Indonesian Christian engagement with Pancasila. Showing the potential for these perspectives to enrich broader social discourse, we suggest that similarities in the symbolic structure of these frameworks can stimulate the exploration of mutual responsibilities across diverse cultural settings. Further, we argue that intimations of gift in traditional Warlpiri ceremony and Christian experience, provide an impetus to this endeavour. Interpretations of ngurra-kurlu and Pancasila as gift are considered integral to the realisation of unity in diversity, embodied within specific contexts of human engagement.
- Published
- 2024