In This Together for National Reconciliation Week

Vinnies NSW acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we walk and work. Across many and diverse nation groups, from the Bundjalung people in the north of our state to the Yuin nation in the south, and from the Eora nation in the east to the Barkandji people in the Far West, we acknowledge with deep respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples continuing connection to land, waters and culture.

This week is National Reconciliation week, running from 27 May – 3 June, in which we commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision. It also immediately follows National Sorry Day on 26 May, which this year, is also the third anniversary of the Uluru Statement of the Heart, which asks all Australians to support a First Nations voice in the Constitution.

The theme for this year’s National Reconciliation Week – In this together – resonates in so many ways as we navigate the shared challenges presented by COVID-19. Although physical distancing requirements will this year limit our capacity to come together for physical events, the week still presents an opportunity to reflect on our history, and turn our minds to the contribution each of us can make towards reconciliation.

This coming Wednesday, all are welcome to join our webinar to learn more about the Uluru Statement, understand its importance, and find out what you can do to support it.

This year is also the 20th anniversary of the bridge walks, when 250,000 people walked together across the Sydney Harbour Bridge in a show of support for reconciliation.

Reconciliation Australia are hosting a panel discussion on Thursday 28th May where panel members reflect on the bridge walks of 2000 and the role of reconciliation since then. Featuring Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, The Hon Linda Burney MP, Reconciliation Australia CEO Karen Mundine and University of Wollongong Lecturer, Summer May Finlay.