By Brittany Drysdale
NATIONAL Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to investigate how everyone can come together to achieve ongoing reconciliation in Australia.
The Bridge Youth Service hosted a Reconciliation Community Event on Friday, June 23, held at their very own office, as part of National Reconciliation Week, which took place from May 27 to June 3, 2023, with the event previously postponed due to weather. The theme for Reconciliation Australia this year is “Be a Voice for Generations,” urging Australians to take action and address the ongoing process of reconciliation.
The event featured various activities and attractions, including free food, traditional games, an artefact display, and community connection opportunities. The fun-filled day brought people together and promoted understanding and reconciliation among all attendees. The collaboration between local organisations such as the Academy of Sport, Health and Education, Rumbalara Aboriginal Cooperative, Headspace, Uniting, River Connect, GOTAFE, Berry Street Youth Foyer, and Point of Difference Studio demonstrated a united effort to make the event a success.
Melinda Lawley, the CEO of The Bridge Youth Service, highlighted that the event signified a positive step in the region’s reconciliation journey.
“Reconciliation for us means being a good ally. To achieve that we need to make sure we are listening. We are making space for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewpoints and perspectives. We are focused on listening, and learning.
“Collectively, we want to show that we are committed to being a voice for reconciliation, to being allies and taking a stand against racism, injustice and inequity,” said Melinda… “Reconciliation Week is important because it draws attention to the fact that reconciliation is continuous, and we need to focus on it.”
