The Name
Kanyini is an important term used by a number of language groups in central Australia, including Pitjantjatjara and Pintubi/Luritja. Kanyini can be translated as "to have, to hold and to care"
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"Kanyini is a verb which reflects a commitment, a full engagement; vitalising again and again all that went before and all that will go after"*
It represents one of the four foundations of Aboriginal life in Central Australia: Tjukurpa (Law, Dreaming); Walytja (Family); Ngurra (Land, Country) and Kanyini. In essence, Kanyini describes the principle and primacy of caring for others - an obligation to nurture, protect and care for other people, family, country and the law.
*Franks C, Curr B. Keeping Company an inter-cultural conversation. Centre for Indigenous Development Education and Research, 1996.