Here’s How You Can Help In The Wake Of Cassius Turvey’s Murder

The tragic death of 15-year-old Noongar boy Cassius Turvey has once again shone a spotlight on how systemic racism and attitudes too often result in violent injustice against First Nations people. From the alleged racist abuse from his attacker, to the downplayed statement from WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch, Turvey’s death cannot be disconnected from Australia’s history of racism. 

Cassius family and friends said he was a future leader with a strong sense of community and a kind, gentle soul. The man who attacked him has been charged with murder.

If you want to help in the wake of Turvey’s shocking death, but don’t know how – here’s where you can start. 

Caroline Kell, Mbarbrum woman, counsellor and founder of Blak Wattle Coaching and Consulting, recently tweeted a list of ways that non-Indigenous allies can show up and be genuinely helpful at devastating moments like this. These are her recommendations (published with Kell’s permission):

1. Ask the First Nations people in your life how you can support them
   This is a devastating time for the community, and constantly seeing racial injustice and violence reported in the news can take a mental toll. Reach out to First Nations friends and peers with an offer of personal support – the way you would for any friend who was grieving.
   Only do this for people you actually know, though. It is not appropriate to be in the DMs of influencers or anyone you don’t already have a personal relationship with.
2. Listen and educate yourself
   Educate yourself about the systemic injustice facing First Nations people – not just in Cassius’ case, but throughout history and in every sector of society. There will be many people speaking up to sharing their stories and knowledge, so this is a good time to simply listen.
   Take the time to listen to Cassius’ family – his mother recently spoke to NITV. Read up on the impacts of colonisation, how Australian policing is dangerous to Indigenous people, and the groundbreaking Four Corners report on missing and murdered First nations women.
   It’s not the time to ask Indigenous people to educate or explain things to you, though. This is self work.
3. Resist the urge to be an expert
   When you’re doing all this learning, it’s tempting to share everything as you go in good faith. Don’t speak over First Nations people and the actual experts, though. Adding your voice to the conversation can make it harder for theirs to be heard.
4. Make financial contributions
   If you can, consider making a donation to: The GoFundMe to help Cassius’ family pay for his funeral, legal costs and support; the Dhadjowa Foundation, a non-profit grassroots organisation working to end Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths in custody; Pay the Rent funds and grassroots organisations in your state or local area.
5. Donate your time, labor or expertise
   If you can’t donate money, what about your skills? Reach out to Blak groups and organisers to see how you can contribute. Whether it’s free labor to help set up and pack down events, or a more specific use of your expertise, it all helps.
6. Amplify Blak voices
   By far the easiest thing you can do is amplify the voices of First Nations people currently speaking out about this on social media. It’s not the only thing to do, but history shows it can help.
7. Call out casual racism
   Not just now, but always. Tragic deaths and miscarriages of justice continue to happen because of the underlying racism poisoning Australian society. Conversation is a powerful tool for changing attitudes and beliefs.
8. Write to your local MP
   They have the power to change institutions and they represent you. Tell them what changes you want to see in the way their party and the government acts on the serious issues facing First Nations people.
9. Attend a vigil
   Vigils for Cassius are being held around the country. Attend with your friends and post lots about it. It shows the family that the public supports them, and sends a signal to those in power that his death must be taken seriously. 

Vigils & Rallies for Cassius Turvey

We’ll keep this list up to date with details for vigils and rallies as they are organised. All times shown are local. If you know of an event that’s not listed here, send us the details: hey@zeefeed.com.au 

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