Japarta Maurie Ryan interviewed by Glenys Dimond in the Bringing Them Home Oral History Project [sound recording]. (2000)

Access Conditions

Some interviews from the Bringing Them Home Oral History Project are available to listen to online in cases where interviewees have given their permission for this to happen. Other recordings and transcripts of interviews are available to in the Library. A number of interviews are subject to restricted access. For further information, please contact the National Library.

Records

Japarta Maurie Ryan speaks about his father and his grandfather Vincent Lingiari, Gurindji leader. Ryan was removed at the age of 4 years by Patrol Officer Ted Evans. He was placed at Seaview cottage on Croker Island, NT and was cared for by Una Clarke, whom he praises for her care. In 1956, he was transferred to Lentara Children's Home, Magill, SA. A couple eventually fostered him.

In 1963, he became the first Aboriginal student at Westminster College, Adelaide before being conscripted into the Army for 3 years from 1966. After completing his Bachelor of Arts, he worked as a teacher. Ryan eventually met with his mother and other family members. In 1981, he held the seat of Victoria River Downs for the Australian Democrats. He later became the Chairperson of the Northern Territory Stolen Generation Corporation. In the interview Ryan also gives his views on the issues of an official apology and reparations.

The interview is available to listen to online. A timed summary and transcript are also available.