Canberra and the ACT are playing a leading role in National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC) celebrations this week.
Activities and events offer the community a wide range of opportunities to join in recognising the histories, cultures and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Rachel Stephen-Smith said this year’s NAIDOC theme, Voice. Treaty. Truth. Let’s Work Together for a Shared Future, reflected three key elements to the reforms set out in the 2017 Uluru Statement from the Heart.
“The theme acknowledges that for generations Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have sought to be the leaders and decision-makers of their own lives and futures,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“NAIDOC Week is not only an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but to have meaningful conversations with one another about the true history of Australia and the ongoing quest of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for a treaty and formal truth-telling process.”
She said that in order to move forward and build a better future together, there was a need to understand and acknowledge our shared past.
The Minister said Canberrans would have the opportunity to participate in a number of activities and events including NAIDOC in the North, Gungahlin – a free, family-friendly event, and NAIDOC Week Community Celebration, Woden – live music, performances and art displays.
“This is very much a community-driven week,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“Many of the events and activities are hosted by community groups, schools and organisations who want to celebrate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and share their cultures with the wider community.”
