Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that the following article contains images, names and voices of people who have died. Uncle Jack Charles’s name and image are used with the permission of his family.

Surviving institutional racism and abuse as a member of the Stolen Generations, Uncle Jack Charles forged a groundbreaking career as actor, author, musician and potter to become one of Australia’s most beloved cultural figures. He passed away on 13 September after suffering from a stroke, just one week after celebrating his 79th birthday.

Jack Charles. Photo supplied

A statement released by his publicist on Tuesday announced: “We are heartbroken to be announcing the passing of our much loved Boon Wurrung, Dja Dja Wurrung, Woiwurrung and Yorta Yorta senior Elder, Brother, Uncle, Great Uncle Jack Charles, who passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his family and loved ones.”

“Before he passed away, his family were able to send him off on Country during a smoking ceremony at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.”

For decades, Uncle Jack gave voice to countless First Nations people who had suffered at the hands of consecutive colonial governments. As one of the...