Today marks the first day of National Reconciliation Week 2022 and it begins with National Sorry Day.
The Bringing them Home report was tabled in Federal Parliament in 1997, a report on the separation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families. This report laid bare the extent and devastating impact of the shameful policies of the forced removal of Aboriginal children.
On National Sorry Day we come together to acknowledge the grief, suffering and injustice experienced by the stolen generations, and offer our ongoing support and solidarity. It is also a day we acknowledge the strength of Stolen Generations Survivors and reflect on how Australians can all play a part in the healing process for the people and nation.
National Reconciliation Week also includes two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 27 May 1967 1967 referendum, and the 3 June 1992 High Court Mabo decision respectively.
This year’s theme of Reconciliation Week is Be Brave. Make Change. A challenge to all Australians— individuals, families, communities, organisations, and government—to Be Brave and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation so we can Make Change for the benefit of all Australians, beginning with brave actions in everyone’s daily lives – where you live, work, play and socialise.
I encourage you to act this week by attending an event as listed on Reconciliation SA Events page, learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Today my thoughts are with members of the Stolen Generations, their family members, and their communities. Your strength and resilience is extraordinary. I stand with you.
In Solidarity,
Maria