“We Are Going” is a powerful poem written by Australian Indigenous poet Oodgeroo Noonuccal (formerly known as Kath Walker). The poem delves into the themes of identity, cultural loss, displacement, and the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities.

The poem portrays the sense of loss and displacement experienced by the Indigenous people of Australia due to the colonization and forced assimilation by European settlers. It presents a contrast between the past and the present, highlighting the profound changes that have occurred in Indigenous communities as a result of colonization.

The poem begins with a nostalgic reflection on the Indigenous people’s ancestral lands, sacred sites, and connection to nature. The speaker laments the loss of their traditional way of life and the erosion of their cultural practices.

As the poem progresses, the speaker acknowledges the harsh reality of their current situation, marked by the intrusion of modernity, urbanization, and the loss of their language and traditions. The poem conveys a feeling of sorrow and mourning for what has been lost.

Despite the somber tone, the poem also carries a message of resilience and determination. The final stanza asserts the survival of the Indigenous spirit and culture, emphasizing that the people are not entirely gone and that their connection to their land and heritage endures.

Overall, “We Are Going” explores themes of cultural heritage, dispossession, and the struggle to preserve identity in the face of colonial oppression. The poem conveys a powerful message about the resilience and enduring spirit of Indigenous communities in Australia.