What does National Reconciliation Week mean to you?
We asked members of the CCSP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee what National Reconciliation Week means to them.
Jason Allan, Chair of the Committee, said, "I think this year's theme fits in well with the referendum on the Voice to Parliament."
"Naa-y, Guwaa-li Maal! - Walk, Talk together as One!
"Walking, Talking together has one loud voice with the same message: Giirr nginhi milan giirr nginhi burralaa, ngaya nginda nginhi Australian. We are one but we are many, we are Australian."
True Unity
"Reconciliation and the importance of Reconciliation week means that we can move towards true unity; unity where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and rights are both recognised and valued as a part of Australia’s shared national identity, leading to national unity."
added Kiri Newcombe-Hubber, Parent Representative for Diocese of Bathurst.
James Haynes, the newest member of the committee, representing Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle believes Reconciliation Week is
"about taking time from our fast-paced everyday life events to appreciate as a family our country, culture and those who have travelled it before us. We are blessed to live in Worimi Country where we have beautiful river systems, mountains and beaches. Connection for me by spending time on country is extremely essential."
Aunty Mary Atkinson from Diocese of Wagga Wagga emphasised the need for kindness.
"We can all play our part by treating each other with kindness and listening to each other.
"Walking together on this journey of true reconciliation where we come together as one in this beautiful, blessed country Australia with all of its traditions that have always been here."
The theme for 2023, Be a Voice for Generations, encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise.
National Reconciliation Week - 27 May to 3 June - commemorates two significant milestones in Australia's Reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively. Click here to learn more about National Reconciliation Week (NRW).
There will be reconcilliation activities happening across Australia. CCSP suggests you ask your child what activities their schoolis holding and see if you can be involved.
Here are some activities you can do with your children in preparation for National Reconciliation Week.
