Reconciliation Week is celebrated on 27th May – 3rd June each year. This year marks 20 years of the initiative to move towards a more reconciled Australia.
National Reconciliation Week is a time to learn about the shared history, cultures, contributions and achievements of all Australians. Using this time to reflect and reiterate the importance of reconciliation allows us to forge stronger and more respectful relationships within the great Australian community. It also provides us the opportunity to celebrate the successes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their historical impact on the nation we see today.
This year’s Reconciliation Week theme is ‘In This Together’.
Never has there been a more fitting time to stop, reflect and respect the contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage, and value justice and equity for all Australians.
Despite over 200 years of racism and discrimination within our society, this week is an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate unity and respect, and to make amends for the actions of the past.
There are several ways that you can celebrate Reconciliation Week and all the contributions made by Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-indigenous Australians to make this country a truly incredible and unique place in the world.
Social Media support
At 12pm on Wednesday the 27th of May, NRW are asking people to take to social media to show their support and respect, and to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the Land you are on – wherever you might be in Australia!
Have a look at the map of Indigenous Australia to find the traditional owners of the land in your area, and tag them in your social media post along with: #InThisTogether2020 and #NRW.
You can video your acknowledgement of country (click here for some guidelines on how to create an acknowledgement video), upload or take a photo, or even partake in some more creative ideas. You choose!
Create a family or individual artwork
Draw, paint or collage a piece or art that represents reconciliation to you. Encourage the kids think about what it means, and how they can represent this in an image or art piece. A simple sketch, collage or even chalk art on the driveway is a great way to pay your respects whilst sharing an enjoyable and educational experience with the whole family.
Remember to take a photo when you are done and show your support on social media!
Educate, appreciate and welcome discussion
The underlying history and themes that Reconciliation Week brings to light can be difficult for young minds to understand and comprehend. Education is key to understanding and growing. Through effective education we collectively create a unified Australia and build communities and relationships that are accepting and progressive.
We found this booklet a helpful and straightforward guide to the education of young people in Australia – Check it out!
Listen to the ABC’s panel discussion ‘Crossing Bridges for Reconciliation’
Hosted by Behrendt, the discussion will be live streamed on Facebook, Radio Nation, and the ABC’s Listen App. The discussion will reflect on the bridge walks of 2000, and where we have come since then. The broadcast will be on Thursday 28th May from 12:00pm – 1:00pm.
For more information on the event, click here.
Celebrate with music
The ABC will also be hosting a Reconciliation concert on Friday 29th May from 9:00pm – 10:00pm titled ‘In Concert Together’.
Grab yourself a warm drink and snuggle up; allow yourself to be moved by the sounds of Busby Marou, Alice Skye and Jimblah.
