Geelong residents came together for National Reconciliation Week to learn about the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Events began on Monday, May 27, with a reflection and lunch in North Geelong hosted by the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative for National Sorry Day, with the week finishing up on June 3.
A spokesperson said Sorry Day was an “opportunity for mob and allies to come together” and that close to 350 people attended the event.
“(We) reflect on the significance of the day and the trauma that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people still carry relating to the Stolen Generation,” they said.
“It is always important to acknowledge our true history and our past while we commit to walking together to build a better future.
“Events like these not only provide a space and an opportunity for the mob to come together and heal but also for our allies to show up and show support.
“We get huge numbers to our community events, and it is great to see the support that the allies in our region have for our organisation and our community.”
Reconciliation in the Park will also occur on Sunday, June 2, at Johnstone Park from 10am to 3pm.
The free event will feature a Welcome to Country, local dancers, community performers, hands-on and kid’s activities, arts and crafts markets, and a BBQ starting at 11.30am.
Reconciliation Australia stated that this year’s theme was ‘Now More Than Ever’, meaning the fight for justice and rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people would continue.
Jena Carr
