NAIDOC Week 2023 is an important time to celebrate and learn more about the history, heritage and culture of the First Tasmanians.
Held from 2 – 9 July, this year’s theme is ‘For Our Elders’, acknowledging the important roles Elders play as trailblazers, teachers, advocates, nurturers and survivors.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Roger Jaensch, said Elders play a special role in local communities, helping to guide the next generation.
“The Tasmanian Government is committed to working in partnership with Tasmanian Aboriginal people and exploring new ways to bring Aboriginal voices into our decision-making and co-design of programs and services,” Minister Jaensch said.
“We are strongly focused on achieving better outcomes for Aboriginal people, by investing in the capacity of Aboriginal community organisations under the new Closing the Gap National Agreement, drafting stronger legislation to better protect Tasmania’s Aboriginal heritage, and improving the model for returning land to Aboriginal people.
“Another important step is the work of the Aboriginal Advisory Group to co-design the path to Truth-telling and Treaty.”
The pathway to Reconciliation is a journey we need to go on together to ensure a more equitable and just future for Aboriginal people in Tasmania.
Minister Jaensch paid his respect to Elders past, present and emerging ahead of NAIDOC Week.
