Even the Activist’s Gotta Eat: Taking Ownership, Building Platforms

Next September it will be a decade since Facebook became available to the general public. Since that time, Indigenous Australians and Indigenous Peoples worldwide have used Facebook to connect, express, and mobilise. The ready access that an email address gave, the easy and consistent interface, and the sometimes persistent pressure of one’s peers meant that most of us have willingly given ourselves over. For most, Facebook IS the internet. For a few others however, blogging becomes a goal once they realise the gated community has limitations. This paper will raise questions about how we provide support to those wishing to expand their communication opportunities, and to begin to create their own owned spaces.