Today marks the start of National Reconciliation Week (NRW), a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.The dates for NRW remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June.
These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the 1967 referendum to include Aboriginal peoples in the census and the anniversary of the High Court’s Mabo native title decision.This year’s theme is Grounded in Truth – Walk Together with Courage.
At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.
‘A reconciled Australia is one where our rights as First Australians are not just respected but championed in all the places that matter,’ says Kirstie Parker, Board Member, Reconciliation Australia.
The Reconciliation Australia website say that reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort.
In a just, equitable and reconciled Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children will have the same life chances and choices as non-Indigenous children, and the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.
Chief Executive Officer, of Reconciliation Australia Karen Mundine says reconciliation isn’t a single moment or place in time. ‘It’s lots of small, consistent steps, some big strides, and sometimes unfortunate backwards steps.’
For more information, visit the Reconciliation Australia website.