Last Sunday marked the beginning of the 50th NAIDOC Week, an event which is celebrated from the first Sunday in July until the following Sunday.
The acronym NAIDOC stands for National Aboriginal and Islanders Day Observance Committee. NAIDOC Week has its roots in the 1938 Day of Mourning, becoming a week-long event in 1975.
The National NAIDOC Committee says this 2025 NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience.
‘The 2025 theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.’
Recognition and rights
The NAIDOC website says the journey began as a movement for recognition and rights, sparked by Indigenous communities who saw a future built on justice and equality.
‘Over the decades, it has grown into a powerful national celebration, a testament to the enduring strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
‘As we commemorate this 50-year legacy, we also look forward, honouring the next generation who will carry the torch, shaping the future with courage, insight, and deep respect for our roots. Guided by the wisdom of our Elders and the groundwork laid by our forebears, each NAIDOC Week reinforces our vision for an Australia where Indigenous voices are not only heard but lead the way.’
Arakwal woman, Indigenous business owner and Byron Shire councillor, Delta Kay, says there is a lot happening during the week.
She says, ‘NAIDOC Week is important because it showcases Aboriginal peoples and elevates our voices – it highlights the great work that we’re doing. It’s a celebration for Indigenous people and is part of the calendar where we can really focus on leading.’
Ms Kay feels that it is important that non-Indigenous people not only celebrate NAIDOC Week, but be a part of it.
‘Everyone wants to put Indigenous flags on Instagram, but do they do anything about it? People need to act, not just post cute photos’.
‘People need to join in with NAIDOC or reach out to Indigenous organisations and be part of real change, not just posting a story online.’
Thursday family day
You can join the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal people) and Byron Shire Council to celebrate NAIDOC Week in Byron Bay on Thursday at a free community family day from 10am to 2pm.
The event will kick off with a march from Railway Park to Dening Park at 10am, and festivities will continue at Dening Park.
There will be a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, cultural dances, stalls, an Elders’ tent, face-painting, weaving and visits from NRL football players.
Stay for a free barbecue lunch.
To find out more about the history of NAIDOC Week and celebratory activities, visit: www.naidoc.org.au.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
