Canberrans are being invited to mark the Territory’s fifth Reconciliation Day at the National Arboretum later this month.
Issuing the invite, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, Rachel Stephen-Smith said Reconciliation Day (30 May) was a time for the Canberra community to come together to learn, reflect and participate in respectful truth-telling.
“[The] event, which will be held from 10am to 3pm at the National Arboretum, will feature traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance and music performances, art and craft workshops, a bush tucker demonstration, storytelling and a range of other family-friendly activities,” Ms Stephen-Smith said.
“The return of the much-loved Sea of Hands, where ACT school students decorate a hand template using colours, words or pictures that represent what reconciliation means to them is set to be another highlight this year,” she said.
“The Sea of Hands is an important demonstration of solidarity and will be installed at the National Arboretum after the event.”
Ms Stephen-Smith said the theme for this year was Be Brave. Make Change.
“It’s a challenge to all Australians – individuals, families, communities, organisations and Government – to be brave and tackle the unfinished business of Reconciliation so we can make change for the benefit of all Australians,” the Minister said.
She said the purpose of the Reconciliation Day public holiday was to create the space and time for Canberrans to learn about the cultures and achievements of First Nations peoples and the true history of the nation, region and city.
Further information on the event can be accessed at this PS News link.
