National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week
We would like to highlight that talking about lived experience for people who have experienced discrimination, particularly intersectionality, can generate unwanted thoughts and feelings. If this happens to you, please make sure you prioritise your wellbeing. Talk to a colleague, friend, family member; someone who makes you feel safe. Alternatively, the Employee Assistance Program (Converge) can be accessed by calling 1800 060 650. You can also call Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Use these resources to help you plan an event for National Sorry Day and Reconciliation Week.
National Sorry Day
National Sorry Day is held on May 26 and marks the day that the landmark ‘Bringing them Home’ report was tabled in federal parliament in 1997.
It is a time to remember the past policies of forced child removal and reflect on the sad and painful stories of the Stolen Generations. It is a time to recognise the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the power of saying Sorry.
National Reconciliation Week
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 reconciliation in Australia.
The Week runs from 27 May to 3 June every year. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey – the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.
Mabo Day
Mabo Day is held yearly on June 3, commemorating the successful overturning of the legal concept of terra nullius or ‘land belonging to no-one’ in 1992, following a 10-year legal case led by activist Eddie Mabo.
This recognized Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander occupation of Australia, acknowledged their rights to their land and waters, and paved the way for native title in Australia.
This year’s theme for National Reconciliation Week
Reconciliation Australia’s theme for 2023, “Be a voice for generations.” For the work of generations past, and the benefit of generations future, let’s act now to create a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all.
Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and importantly as a nation. At the heart of this journey are relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
2023: Activities and Resources
We have created a series of activities and resources that you can share within your smaller teams as you make a commitment to ‘Be a voice for generations’.
We encourage you to begin registering to participate in our National Reconciliation Week panel discussion on Wednesday 31 May 2023. Everyone has a role to play in reconciliation – in the classroom, on the playground, at the office or online.
This year’s theme ‘be a voice for generations’ asks each and everyone of us to use our words and our actions to create a better, more just, and equitable Australia for all.
Any of the recorded events will be able to watch or re-watch on demand in our resource section.
| Time and Date | Event or Resource |
|---|---|
Wednesday 31 May 7:30 am – 9:00 am |
Reconciliation NSW’s 2023 National Reconciliation Week Virtual Breakfast |
Wednesday 31 May 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm |
Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Launch and National Reconciliation Week live panel discussion, hosted by Murat in the foyer of 105 Phillip Street. |
Friday 2 June TBC |
Kimberwalli Event TBC |
Teams Background
- Download the National Reconciliation Week Teams Background
- Download the Sorry Day Teams Background
Join the conversation
For any queries please contact: rap@det.nsw.edu.au.
Everyone in the department is welcome to join the Yammer ‘Reconciliation Action Plan Group’ it’s a great place to join in the conversation around reconciliation.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders employees are warmly invited to join the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Employee Network, contact Darren.Bell@det.nsw.edu.au