National Reconciliation Week is a time for everyone in Bass Coast to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
This year the theme of Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future and asks us all to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.
Bass Coast Reconciliation Network (the Network) acknowledges National Reconciliation Week each year with member organisations hosting events at their workplaces for their teams with some open to all community members to attend.
National Reconciliation Week is bookended by two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey:
* The successful 1967 referendum when Australians voted to remove clauses in the Australian Constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
* The 1992 Mabo decision when the High Court of Australia recognised native title-the recognition that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' rights over their lands did survive British colonisation.
"We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and in playing our part we collectively build relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures," said co-Chair of the Network, Dr Bev Munro.
The day before National Reconciliation Week, May 26, is National Sorry Day commemorated nationally to remember and honour the Stolen Generations.
Public events happening across Bass Coast to acknowledge the week include a program of free First Nations films and Story Times at your local Myli Library, a special free screening of "Off Country" at Berninneit, Cowes and celebrating the launch of Bass Coast Health's Reconciliation Action Plan on Wednesday May 28 in Wonthaggi.
"Across Bass Coast, organisations are acknowledging National Reconciliation Week in their workplaces, schools and communities and everyone is encouraged to join in and show their support," said Dr Munro.
Find out more and join the events happening across Bass Coast for National Reconciliation Week: www.basscoast.vic.gov.au/reconciliation