National Reconciliation Week – More than a word

National Reconciliation Week is a time where we acknowledge and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and re-commit ourselves to progress reconciliation.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said that reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.

This year, 2021, marks twenty years of Reconciliation Australia and almost three decades of the Australian formal reconciliation process.

“The week commences 27 May marking the anniversary of the 1967 Referendum and concludes with the anniversary of the High Court’s Mabo decision on 3 June – both significant milestones in our nation’s history,” Mr Vasta said.

“This year’s theme, More than a word, Reconciliation takes action, calls on all Australians to think about the meaningful ways to affect change.”

Minister for Indigenous Australians, the Hon Ken Wyatt AM MP, said that for reconciliation to be effective, it must actively address issues of inequality, racism and instances where the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are ignored, denied or reduced.

“Our goal in reconciliation is a nation where all children have the same life chances and choices, and the length and quality of a person’s life will not be determined by their racial background.”

“Through our actions, we can build stronger relationships based on mutual respect and trust between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the broader Australian community.”

The Morrison Government continues its commitment to reconciliation by reforming the way we work with Indigenous Australians – in partnership – to achieve better outcomes.

”I encourage all residents in Bonner to get involved in National Reconciliation Week and share your events and messages using the hashtags #MoreThanAWord and #NRW2021.”, Mr Vasta said.

For posters and other resources to help you host events and mark the occasion, visit https://nrw.reconciliation.org.au/