Ben Cuimermara Taylor facts for kids

Ben Cuimermara Taylor

Benedict "Ben" Taylor, also known as Cuimara, was born on 15 October 1938. He is a respected Noongar elder from the south-west of Western Australia. Ben Taylor is well-known for his work as an Indigenous activist, fighting for the rights and fair treatment of Aboriginal people.

Early Life

Ben Taylor grew up in Walebing, a place near New Norcia. His mother, Queenie Harris, was born in 1906 in Norseman, Western Australia. His father, Rosendo "Andy" Taylor, was from Yued country and was born in 1903 in New Norcia.

His parents met at the Moore River Native Settlement. They later married at the Catholic Church in New Norcia on 9 March 1926.

Important Achievements

Ben Taylor has worked hard to help his community and achieve important changes. Here are some of his key achievements:

Recognitions and Awards

• Member of the Order of Australia (2013): He received this award for his important work. It recognized his efforts to help the Indigenous community of Western Australia. He contributed to many social justice and human rights issues.
• Western Australian Ambassador, White Ribbon Day (2011): This role showed his commitment to preventing violence.

Working for Rights and Justice

• Native Title Recognition (2006): Ben Taylor was involved in a big step for the Noongar people. He helped achieve recognition of their Native Title in south-west Western Australia. This means their traditional rights to land were officially recognized.
• Community Justice Coalition of Western Australia: He is a current board representative for this group. They work to make the justice system fairer for everyone.
• HALO Leadership Development Agency (since 2011): He has been a committee member for this agency. They help develop leaders in the community.
• Noongar Elder Representative, Western Australian Coalition Against Racism (2001): He represented Noongar elders in this group. They worked to fight against racism.
• Noongar Elder Representative, Curtin University Study Tour (2002): He traveled with Aboriginal Masters students from Curtin University of Technology. They visited Indigenous communities in Minnesota and Wisconsin, USA.
• Noongar Council of Elders (1999): He became a member of this important council. This group helps guide and support the Noongar community.

Community Support and Care

• Pastoral Care Assistant, Aboriginal Catholic Ministry (1981-1999): Ben Taylor provided care and support to people in hospitals. He helped at many hospitals, including Royal Perth Hospital and Princess Margaret Hospital.
• Aboriginal Reference Group, Anglicare WA (since 2008): He is a member of this group. They advise Anglicare WA on how to best support Aboriginal people.
• Adviser on Noongar Protocols (current): He advises the Anglican Archbishop of Perth on Noongar customs and traditions. This helps ensure respect for Noongar culture.