National Reconciliation Week encourages all Australians to intentionally focus on our shared history. The week recognises the ongoing impacts and reconciliation journey to unite and strengthen connections between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples.

Each year, National Reconciliation Week celebrates a different theme. This year’s theme, ‘Be a voice for generations’, encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in our everyday lives - where we live, work and socialise.

It reminds us that all generations have a part to play for a more just, equitable and reconciled country. The work of past generations is an advantage to us today, and we are called to act now for the benefit of future generations.

Here are some steps you can take towards reconciliation:

1. Learn about the significance of the two dates that mark the week from 27 May - 3 June. Understand how Indigenous Australians were impacted by these events, and their struggles to win these rights.
2. Acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land where you live or work. Feel free to let people on your social media platforms know which traditional lands you call home. It’s a good way to spread knowledge about who the Traditional Custodians are in different areas.
3. Explore local Indigenous histories and culture. Their history is tens of thousands of years long and learning about it can aid greater understanding between non-Indigenous and Indigenous people.

There are many different contexts where people can be supportive, from an individual level, family level, church level, workplace level, etc.

The key is to:

• Be respectful and open to learning. This provides a safe space to speak freely for ourselves about the subjects that are affecting our lives, people and community.
• Speak up when you hear someone say something inappropriate that reinforces negative racial stereotypes or are dismissive of our culture and people. If you are not confident in speaking up, share with a friend or colleague who may be able to support you. If you are in a workplace, speak with your line manager.
• Expand your knowledge about the true history of our nation. There is a wealth of information and be mindful that much of what was recorded in the earlier days was from the perspective of colonisers, so the whole truth is not told. Make time to do some research, to read and to listen, with a particular focus on resources by Indigenous authors.

It’s important that you take care of yourself, you won't always get it right. Surround yourself with like-minded people and ask for help if you need it. 

Building trust and relationships through ongoing networking with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations/groups is critical. This increases the likelihood of improved referral and access pathways for participants or community members engaging with any of our programs.

We must also ensure our places and programs are culturally safe.

Join in local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events and activities to engage with and experience getting to know the people, the place, the history and the way forward.