Rata is a grassroots media service created as a counter-space for truth-telling and for Indigenous voices to be platformed. Rata centres justice and collective awareness in the pursuit of global decolonisation. Foremost, Rata is committed to Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing.
Globally, Indigenous peoples carry deep histories and diverse cultures. Yet too often, Indigenous voices are underrepresented, falsified, or entirely ignored by mainstream media outlets. For hundreds of years, colonial and occupation forces have distorted the narrative and controlled the media space. Rata exists as a platform to give visibility to our strengths and struggles towards the collective fight for self-determination.
The name Rata means "smoke" in the Anaiwan language. Rata reflects an ancient method of communication – a signal sent across distance to share knowledge, warn of danger, and bring people together. Rata founder, Uncle “Coco” Wayne Wharton, reminds us that communication has always been central to survival and unity.
Power in truth, strength in storytelling. Always was always will be Aboriginal land.
ABOUT RATA
A note on language
At Rata, we are aware that various, diverse terminology are used by Indigenous people in how they describe themselves, their experiences and their communities. Where possible, the Sovereign names of places, people, and communities will be utilised. We use the term ‘Indigenous’ to broadly describe peoples’ enduring connection to their land, skies, and waterways under the ongoing threat of colonisation.
Rata is put together by Uncle “Coco” Wayne Wharton and a team of Indigenous and non-Indigenous collaborators. Rata is a grassroots, independent and community-run initiative.
Unless otherwise stated, nothing on this website has been developed with Artificial Intelligence.
To discuss the language or use of an image or video in an article, email contact@ratacommunications.com
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