The Department of Education has urged staff to mark National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week, beginning today (27 May).
Secretary of the Department. Mark Scott said the impact of COVID-19 should assist staff in their reflections on the importance of National Reconciliation Week.
Mr Scott said the theme for National Reconciliation Week 2020 was ‘In this together’ which reflected the current experience of the pandemic.
“The theme resonates as we face the extraordinary challenges of COVID-19 with a sense of solidarity and shared purpose,” Mr Scott said.
“Working and walking together is the essence of National Reconciliation Week, as we take the opportunity to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation,” he said.
“There is a suite of resources available to help in organising an event to mark National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week.”
Mr Scott said the Department had suggested three actions everyone could take to recognise and celebrate National Reconciliation Week.
These were to begin meetings and events with an Acknowledgement of Country; change Zoom background for a week; and watch the live recording of Baker Boy’s Marryuna.
“It’s important to bring people together to develop a greater understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives, histories and cultures; to ignite conversation; and to spark change,” Mr Scott said.
The Department’s resources for National Reconciliation Week can be accessed at this PS News link.
