Vale Jimmy Little:  gentle voice, gentle manner and gentle man

 

Vale Jimmy Little AO

Uncle Jimmy Little (1937-2012) was a path finder in so many ways - from music, to acting, to speaking out and breaking down the barriers between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.

 

3 April 2012

The Chairperson of the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS), Professor Mick Dodson AM, today expressed his deep sadness at the passing of Australian music icon Jimmy Little AO.

Little, aged 75 passed away at his home yesterday following a long illness.

“We have lost a true champion, a gentle voice and a gentle man,” Professor Dodson said.

“Uncle Jimmy was a path finder in so many ways - from music, to acting, to speaking out and breaking down the barriers between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.”

“His achievement from being born under a tree on Cummeragunja Aboriginal Mission on the NSW-Victorian border to becoming Australia’s first Aboriginal pop star is testament to Jimmy’s remarkable talent, his honesty and indomitable spirit and his determination.”

“From such humble beginnings, this proud Yorta Yorta man went on to become the face and voice of black Australia in the 60s, a multi award winner singer/songwriter, an actor and a fighter through his continued work with Indigenous communities on health and social justice issues over so many decades.”

“He will forever remain a hero to our people.”

“He will stay in the hearts of so many Australians and his lifetime of dedication to his people will not be forgotten.”

“Our thoughts go out to his family and community.”