National Reconciliation Week

Dear Community,

This week has ended up being a difficult week as we once again faced restrictions on Tuesday night and a fourth snap lockdown as of midnight last night.  However, that did not deter us from remembering the significance of Sorry Day on Wednesday (26/5) where we respectfully acknowledge those members of the Stolen Generation; a generation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people who were, as children taken from their families and communities. This is the day that we acknowledge their pain, loss of connection to country, culture, community, and family but also recognise the amazing strength and resilience of the Stolen Generation members despite the flow on impacts that this has had.  We applaud you.

This week also marks National Reconciliation Week (27 May to 4 June 2021), a time for all Australians to reflect on our First Nation’s history, culture, and achievements and how as a nation we can work towards reconciliation. The theme for this year is “More Than a Word, Reconciliation Takes Action”.

Reconciliation is a “journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and importantly as a nation” (Reconciliation Australia). It is the process of building and healing the relationship between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Australians where we can share the priceless history and culture that has existed for more than 50,000 years, and where we can celebrate and honour our First Nation people with respect and mutual understanding.  It is also a time where we can strive for equality on many levels; discard the injustices of yesterday and look forward to a brighter future for all of us.  And finally, to be proud of the profound importance that our culture represents in all facets of our lives across this great nation. 

Here at Mullum Mullum Indigenous Gathering Place (MMIGP), we aim to work towards reconciliation through many of our programs and activities.  We are grateful for the support of our local Reconciliation Eastern Metro (REM) groups and the broader community who often roll up their sleeves to lend a hand wherever it is needed.  We recognise that we cannot always do things on our own and thank our REM friends and others for their loyalty and ongoing commitment to our organisation and community.  This week we would have enjoyed attending many events and participating in joint partnerships to celebrate Reconciliation Week and whilst this cannot be done right now, we know that our friendships, conversations, and work will still be reflecting and remembering how we walk together; how we ensure that it is more than just a word, but an action.

From all of us at MMIGP we wish you a happy Reconciliation Week and as we face the uncertain week ahead, we hope that you all stay strong and deadly.

Elke Smirl
CEO
MMIGP

28 May 2021

nrw.reconciliation.org.au/