New research amplifies the voices of LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors

A first of its kind study has identified practical ways to strengthen recognition, advocacy, culturally safe support and connection for LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors and their families.

Important study centres lived experience

The importance of culturally safe, trauma-informed support to survivors becomes even more critical to by LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors and their families – according to research commissioned by The Healing Foundation.  

Researchers from Macquarie University held open conversations with survivors and family members, which highlighted powerful stories of identity, belonging, healing, and the importance of culturally safe, trauma-informed support. 

Eight LGBTQIASB+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Sistergirl, Brotherboy plus) Stolen Generations survivors and three family members took part, sharing their experiences of identity, belonging, healing, connection and support.

Participants stressed the importance of having their whole identities recognised, particularly when they can feel overlooked in both Stolen Generations and LGBTQIASB+ spaces. They called for their voices to be reflected in policy, services and decision-making, and for trauma-informed support that is both culturally safe and affirming of LGBTQIASB+ identities.

The research reveals the distinct experiences of people living at the intersection of Stolen Generations histories and diverse gender, sex and sexuality identities. It also identifies practical opportunities to improve recognition, advocacy, support and community connection.

Survivors call for recognition, safety and connection

Participants described the complex and compounding effects of forced removal, racism, queerphobia, transphobia and exclusion from family, community and support systems. These experiences continue to affect social and emotional wellbeing, contributing to grief, isolation and mistrust of services.

Turning findings into action

The Healing Foundation will draw on the findings to strengthen policy and advocacy, increase awareness, and help Stolen Generations organisations and partner services better understand survivors’ experiences and social and emotional wellbeing needs.

Participants described intersectionality not simply as the presence of multiple identities, but as the cumulative weight of lived experience:

“People think being intersectional is about how many different identities you have…it’s really about how much a person is carrying… everything we’ve been through…”

Another participant reflected on how a lack of understanding within families and communities can affect belonging and social and emotional wellbeing: “We want that sense of belonging, yeah, and our queerness tends to make that happen less. I think you know the mobs don't understand when you come back, you know, and if the mob don't fully get what Stolen means, you know what effects that has on us. You know, our social, emotional wellbeing.” Together, these reflections underscore the need for responses that recognise survivors’ whole identities and strengthen culturally safe pathways to belonging, connection and healing.

Planned work includes knowledge sharing, resource development, community education and engagement across the sector. The Healing Foundation will continue listening to survivors, families and communities while exploring opportunities to support connection, storytelling and community-led healing.

Building a foundation for change

By illuminating key areas for progress, this study calls for decisive action in healing, policy, and reform. It urges that LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors are not only acknowledged but actively involved in shaping future discussions and initiatives.

Read the full report and download the research snapshot

Acknowledgement

We acknowledge and thank the LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors and family members who participated in this research. By generously sharing their experiences, insights and stories, participants have helped deepen understanding of the unique challenges, strengths and aspirations of LGBTQIASB+ Stolen Generations survivors. Their contributions will help inform future advocacy, awareness and healing efforts.