A youth anthem tackling how Indigenous youth can keep their communities safe from Covid-19 has just been released.

Recorded by Aboriginal artists Mi-Kaisha and hip hop artist Nooky, the song’s video clip, recorded in Sydney’s inner-city suburb of Redfern, features choreography by Bundjalung, Yuin, Munanjali, Gamillaraay and Murray Island nations man, Darren Compton. 

Aboriginal people in New South Wales are at greater risk of serious illness and death from COVID-19 and the track ‘One Point 5’ speaks to Aboriginal youth about their role in keeping their communities safe. 

This heightened risk makes it essential for frequent and reliable information to reach and circulate within Aboriginal communities. 

Darumbal, Murri and Tongan woman Mi-Kaisha said “I was motivated to be part of this project because I knew how important it was to amplify Indigenous voices and the message of keeping mob safe during the pandemic”.

“I knew how greatly COVID-19 had impacted the wellbeing of Mob and wanted to create music with a message of encouragement,” she said.

Key themes in the song include keeping a safe distance from others, keeping in contact with people during isolation, and drawing strength from the Aboriginal cultural sense of family and community connectedness.

“I hope it reassures people and encourages Mob to continue to stay COVID safe. We encourage everyone to keep social distancing, washing hands, even wearing a mask in public spaces and doing what we can to stop the spread,” Mi-Kaisha said. 

Nooky said “I know our mob want to hang out with family but we’ve got to think of other people during this, especially our Elders, I know things are tough but we’ll get through it together”.

You can see the music video here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=635622850689835

The track and music video are part of NSW Health’s COVID-19 Aboriginal Communications Strategy, developed in partnership with First Nations agency, 33 Creative, and forms an important part of the multi-pronged approach the NSW Government is taking to communicating about COVID-19. 

If you need social and emotional wellbeing support, call the COVID-19 mental health line: 1800 512 348. For the latest information on COVID-19, visit http://www.nsw.gov.au.