Recognise National Reconciliation Week 2021 by taking part in a number of local events exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.
National Reconciliation Week takes place every year from 27 May to 3 June. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey: the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision.
It 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.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Brett Owen encouraged residents to join in on local events which include art exhibitions, workshops, storytelling and movie screenings.
“As a Council, we’re committed to reconciliation and acknowledge the historic and continuing link of the Aboriginal people to the land,” Cr Owen said.
“This is achieved through measures like our Statement of Reconciliation and our Reconciliation Action Plan which outlines practical actions Council will take to drive greater equality, build strong relationships and enhance respect between Aboriginal people, Council and the Cardinia Shire community.
“I encourage all residents to take part in this year’s National Reconciliation Week events. We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and by gaining awareness and knowledge, we can become empowered to take more substantive, brave actions on issues affecting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples,” he said.
Flag raising ceremony
National Reconciliation Week will commence in Cardinia Shire with a flag-raising ceremony on Thursday 27 May at 12.30pm, outside the Cardinia Shire Civic Centre. Community members are invited to attend the outdoor ceremony which will include:
- Welcome to Country and speeches
- Performances by local Indigenous artist
- A taste of free bush tucker.
‘Our Tracks and Traces’ digital art installation
Cardinia Cultural Centre’s Crush Space is transforming into an abstract, interactive digital artwork exploring the natural landscape of Australia. Through the eyes of Indigenous woman and artist Jadah Pleiter and digital installation/animation specialist Homie, the duo will engage the community through their experimental work which recognises indigenous culture.
Launch date: Friday 28 May from 3pm to 4pm
Location: Cardinia Cultural Centre
Info and to book: Phone 1300 887 624 or email [email protected]
Djiri Djirri presents Mums’n’Bubs dance workshop
Come and learn dances from the Wurundjeri creation narrative! Participants will also learn the Woiwurrung language through singing and dancing.
Date: Monday 31 May, 11am -12pm
Location: Pakenham Library
Info and to book: Phone 1800 577 548 or book here
Aboriginal storytelling with Ron Murray
This interactive workshop will be led by didgeridoo musician and Indigenous awareness educator, Ron Murray. Participants will learn about Aboriginal culture, with a focus on music, storytelling and Indigenous history.
Date: Tuesday 1 June, 10am-11.30am
Location: Living and Learning Centre: 6B Henry St, Pakenham VIC 3810
Info: Phone 5941 2389
‘In My Blood It Runs’ movie screenings and Q&A with Aunt Anni (Torres Strait Islander)
Join these intimate screenings of the acclaimed feature documentary In My Blood It Runs. The screenings will be followed by an opportunity for a Q&A with local community leader Aunt Anni, who will share her thoughts and observations about living in Australia as one of Australia’s First People. These events are held in partnership with the Pakenham Library and Cardinia’s COVID-19 Community Recovery Committee. Light refreshments provided.
Event one:
Date: Wednesday 26 May, 6pm- 8pm
Location: Pakenham Library
Info and to book: Phone 1800 577 548 or book here
Event two:
Date: Thursday 3 June, 6pm-8pm
Location: Pakenham Library
Info and to book: Phone 1800 577 548 or book here
