National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is an important time for us to deepen our understanding of our shared histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. At the Y WA we spent NRW engaging in various activities and reflecting on how we can actively support reconciliation in the communities we serve.
To kickstart the week, Y WA staff participated in the Reconciliation WA breakfast. This event featured enlightening from esteemed Elders and community leaders, alongside captivating performances, and thought-provoking videos. Among those in attendance was also an inspiring young person from the Y School, highlighting our dedication to involving and empowering youth in our reconciliation efforts.
A compelling reconciliation video was also developed and shared on social media, featuring our Youth Services Coordinator, Hannah Collard, a proud Ballardong Whadjuk Noongar woman. Hannah shared her perspective on reconciliation and the importance of supporting it 'Now More Than Ever'.
To close out the week, a group of Y WA staff braved the wet weather to walk in solidarity for reconciliation. Starting at Langley Park, Boorloo (Perth) and ending at the Supreme Court Gardens, the walk included a Welcome to Country, key speakers and several Smoking Ceremony fire pits for walkers to pass through. There was also a NRW Education Zone, with educational activities for school groups and young attendees. Through immersive activities and dialogue, participants were encouraged to reflect on the significance of reconciliation and their role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future.
This year’s theme, ‘Now More Than Ever’, is particularly important, especially following last year's referendum, which highlighted that there is still a lot of work to be done. Now More Than Ever, we must recommit ourselves to the reconciliation journey across all the communities we serve. Looking ahead, we remain committed to reconciliation, recognizing that it is an ongoing journey requiring sustained effort, dialogue, and action.
Let's stand together in the spirit of reconciliation, learn from one another, and strive towards a future of unity, respect, and shared prosperity.
Watch Hannah's video here.