National Reconciliation Week 2024 - Now More Than Ever
National Reconciliation Week (NRW), held every year from 27 May to 3 June, is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
The theme for 2024 is 'Now More Than Ever' (#NRW2024) reminding us that, no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will – and must – continue.
Reconciliation Week encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise.
This week represents a chance for all of Hume City to support and develop relationships and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands people. We aim to enhance the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands people within our community.
What’s the significance of 27 May and 3 June?
27 May marks the anniversary of the 1967 referendum when Australians voted to remove clauses in the Australian Constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
3 June marks the historic 1992 Mabo decision in which the High Court of Australia recognised native title—the recognition that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ rights over their lands did survive British colonisation.
The day before National Reconciliation Week, 26 May, is National Sorry Day, which was first held in Sydney in 1998 and is now commemorated nationally to remember and honour the Stolen Generations.
What is reconciliation in relation to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples?
At its heart, reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.
For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Australia’s colonial history is characterised by devastating land dispossession, violence, and racism. Over the last half century, however, many significant steps towards reconciliation have been taken.
Reconciliation is an ongoing journey that reminds us that while generations of Australians have fought hard for meaningful change, future gains are likely to take just as much, if not more, effort.
What can I do for the rest of the year?
While National Reconciliation Week is an excellent time to think about these issues, you can still take action throughout the year to work towards reconciliation.
Visit the Reconciliation Australia website for more information.