National Reconciliation Week 2023 - tangible actions

National Reconciliation Week is a time to learn about our shared histories, cultures, achievements, and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. 

The theme for National Reconciliation Week this year is, “Be a Voice for Generations” encouraging all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise. 

‘Walking in two worlds’ is a cross-cultural strength and cultural load that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and individuals can experience in staying connected to culture while navigating Western systems to access services, overcome barriers and achieve their aspirations.  

Some of our community partners have explained to us what individuals and organisations in the mainstream can do to ease this cultural load. It is active and ongoing and has elements of truth, justice, forgiveness, healing, reparation, and love. 

Building strong relationships with First Nations people, organisations and communities requires deep listening, mutual trust, respect and valuing First Nations leadership and ownership. 

Sharon Babyack