This song honours Bess Nungarrayi Price an Aboriginal Australian activist. She has suffered the loss of siblings through violence and has been critised for shedding light on issues close to her heart especially violence against aboriginal women and children. She says "we need to support those who tell the truth."
Lyrics
Warlpiri Woman
The cry of a baby in the dry heart of Australia
No-one knew the future that was to unfold
This little baby left to die in the desert
Was found by ’Old Maudie’ and destined to survive.
Chorus
Destined to survive, strong Warlpiri woman
Lived through the old ways and changes that have come
She is a voice leading her people
Strong Warlpiri woman, Bess Nungarrayi Price
Taken under wing and raised by her aunties
The child grew into a fair-minded girl
When she was thirteen, she refused to marry
An older man to whom she was promised at birth
Chorus
Destined to survive, strong Warlpiri woman
Lived through the old ways and changes that have come
She is a voice leading her people
Strong Warlpiri woman, Bess Nungarrayi Price
Destined to survive
Strong Warlpiri Woman
Destined to survive
‘Whitefella’ Dave saw someone beautiful
He saw courage in the eyes of this Warlpiri girl
Shining like a beacon and proud of her traditions,
Speaking the language, always seeking the truth
Chorus
Destined to survive, strong Warlpiri woman
Lived through the old ways and changes that have come
She is a voice leading her people
Strong Warlpiri woman, Bess Nungarrayi Price
She faces up to what is real; she’s a firsthand witness
Who has her detractors but bravely carries on
She is tired of the silence, the feuding and the violence
And wants to see Yuendumu peaceful once again
Chorus
Destined to survive, strong Warlpiri woman
Lived through the old ways and changes that have come
She is a voice leading her people
Strong Warlpiri woman, Bess Nungarrayi Price
Destined to survive
Strong Warlpiri Woman
Destined to survive.
Strong Warlpiri Woman
Destined to survive.
Thank you Bess Nungarrayi Price