We advise Indigenous Australian readers that images and the names of deceased people appear in this article. Permission has been given by Archie Roach’s family for his image and name to be shared.
Tributes are flowing after Aboriginal Australian musician and activist Archie Roach passed away peacefully on Saturday, aged 66.
A proud Gunditjmara (Kirrae Whurrong/Djab Wurrung), Bundjalung Senior Elder, songman and storyteller, Roach was known for his 1990 song ‘Took the Children Away’, which became an anthem for the stolen generations.
The sons of Roach, Amos and Eban, released a statement on behalf of the family, saying that they are “heartbroken” about his passing.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese took to Twitter, expressing his mourning for the passing of a “prolific national truth-teller”.
Tonight we mourn the passing of Archie Roach.
Our country has lost a brilliant talent, a powerful and prolific national truth teller.
— Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) July 30, 2022
Victorian Greens Senator and Gunnai Gunditjmara and Djab Wurrung woman Lidia Thorpe thanked Roach for “validating the trauma” experienced by Aboriginal communities since colonisation.
Uncle Archie, thank you for validating the trauma felt in our communities since colonisation. Your music brought us healing and peace. May our ancestors protect and guide you.
Aunty Ruby Hunter and Uncle Archie Roach celebrated + played at my 21st. So honoured.
Rest in power✊🏾 pic.twitter.com/TKwPnhzar3
— Senator Lidia Thorpe (@SenatorThorpe) July 31, 2022
Former Olympic gold medallist and Kuku Yalanji woman Cathy Freeman said that she will remember Roach as a “courageous story teller and [a] remarkable musician”.
So saddened to hear the passing of such a champion for First Nations people and all humanity. I will remember (Uncle) Archie Roach as such a courageous story teller and remarkable musician! You’ll never be forgotten. Rest in Peace. Sincerest condolences to all the family. pic.twitter.com/7OVBfvRldw
— Cathy Freeman (@CathyFreeman) July 30, 2022
A private ceremony will be held in his honour.
PHOTO: Archie Roach by Warren Smart is available HERE and used under a Creative Commons licence. This photo has not been modified.
