National Reconciliation Week 2018

This blog entry was authored by Glenda Kickett,
Manager, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships and Engagement Therapeutic Services – Aboriginal Children and Families at the Australian Childhood Foundation.

National Reconciliation Week is a week for us to reflect on our relationships as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples of this land and non-Indigenous peoples. It is a week which acknowledges the history of the Stolen Generations and the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, cultures, and communities.

The national theme: ‘Let’s stop making history a mystery’ encourages us to find out more about the local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people in our area, their culture and connection to country, and what has happened for them from colonisation.

National Reconciliation Week is a week for everyone to take the time and opportunity to learn about our histories and cultures and to share the journey with us because it should not be just about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities, but all Australians.

I encourage all non-Indigenous professionals working with Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander children and families to consider how you might help ensure the history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples does not remain a mystery for you or those in your practice and the wider community; and to think about working in ways which is culturally responsive and safe.

This involves deep listening which is from the heart to the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples because stories tell us about trauma and hopelessness, but, also about strength, resilience, and hope for the future.

For me, Reconciliation is coming together in ways which are mutually respectful, to listen and learn; and to gain an increased understanding of our past and present histories and to walk together for the betterment of all our futures.