Living Here
2020 National Reconciliation Week theme takes on extra significance
This year marks 20 years since National Reconciliation Week was established and its theme for 2020 – In This Together – is now resonating in ways unforeseen when it was first announced last year.
Twenty years ago, Reconciliation Australia started a journey towards a more just, equitable and reconciled nation, which saw people come together to walk on bridges and roads across the nation and show their support for the cause.
National Reconciliation Week’s 2020 theme – In This Together – has taken on extra significance in the face of the ongoing Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) health emergency as it reminds us, as a nation, we are all In This Together.
Running from 27 May to 3 June, National Reconciliation Week commemorates two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey, being the 1967 Australian referendum and the 1992 High Court of Australia Mabo decision, respectively. Gladstone Region Councillor Chris Trevor said National Reconciliation Week is a significant occasion as it not only recognises those who came before us, but how their efforts and contributions have shaped the Australia of today.
“National Reconciliation Week 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 further reconciliation in Australia,” Councillor Trevor said.
“Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and importantly as a nation – and at the heart of this journey are relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
Cr Trevor said Gladstone Regional Council (GRC) remains committed to the continuation of Australia’s reconciliation journey, having launched the GRC Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) during National Reconciliation Week in 2018.
“The Reconciliation Action Plan is about developing strong foundations on which to build relationships on, creating lasting and meaningful relationships, encouraging respect and promoting sustainable opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians within the Gladstone Region,” he said.
“The Byellee, Gooreng Gooreng, Gurang and Taribelang Bunda peoples are the traditional custodians of the land on which we live in the Gladstone Region.
“By working together with our traditional custodians, the Gladstone Region can strive towards leading the nation by fostering an inclusive culture, while also increasing positive, productive relationships with local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.”
Please visit www.gladstone.qld.gov.au/national-reconciliation-week for more information on National Reconciliation Week.
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