More than just a word, reconciliation takes action

Reconciliation Week, a time for all Australians to learn about our shared history, and culture, and to reflect and educate one another, but more importantly, to take action and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.  

To move forward we must pay our respects and take action in leading the way to create a nation that goes from strength to strength, through respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

At The Fathering Project we believe everyone has a role to play in reconciliation. We too recognise the importance of connection and belonging, to land, to family and to fathers. We continue to take action and commit to programs, activities and support that help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men to become stronger fathers, benefiting their children as well as their communities.

The Fathering Project in collaboration with Prof Len Collard undertook a project to create an Aboriginal fathering program. Noongar men were asked to explain what Noongar maaman (fathering) looked like to them. A rich source of information was provided by these wise men. Read the full report and literature review

The theme this Reconciliation Week is ‘More than a word, reconciliation takes action’. We encourage all Australians to take action with care, support and empathy, so we can create stronger communities together. Here’s some ways you can take action:  

Source: nrw.reconciliation.org.au/actions-for-reconciliation

1. Move from ally to accomplice

Being only three per cent of the Australian population, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can’t raise the profile of important issues without allies.

2. Call out racism

Racism damages lives and livelihoods. Whether in the city, regions, online or in public spaces, getting abused, ignored, refused service or getting followed by security, has long-lasting damaging effects. Be braver and call out racism when you see it.

3. Create culturally safe places

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples don’t always feel safe or welcomed in some places, and have been historically excluded from many. Understand what your school or workplace could do to be safe and welcoming.

4. Act to protect First Nations cultures

Knowing, understanding and being strong in culture influences the health and well-being of First Nations peoples. Practicing culture offers mental, economic and physical strength.

5. Defend Land Rights and Native Title

Australia’s First Peoples have defended their lands and waters, and asserted their rights to their homelands since the beginning of colonisation. Land justice is hard fought for and must be vigilantly guarded.

The Fathering Project acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.