Be a voice for generations.
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.
More importantly, imagining. better country for future generations.
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.
Reconciliation Australia CEO, Karen Mundine said, this year’s NRW theme urges all Australians to use their power, their words and their vote to create a better, more just Australia for all of us.
“Reconciliation is about building a better nation; a more united Australia that respects and takes pride in 65,000 years of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, stories and achievements; an Australia that believes in the right of First Nations peoples to make decisions about our lives and our communities; and an Australia that stands opposed to racism, inequity and injustice. I urge all Australians to join me in participating in activities this National Reconciliation Week and to raise our voices for the future.”
What can you do this reconciliation week?
1. Be an ally
Only making up three per cent of the Australian population, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can’t raise the profile of important issues without us as 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. Practising 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 and present.
