National Reconciliation Week: A Time for Reflection and Reconciliation

What is National Reconciliation Week?

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is an annual event held from May 27 to June 3 that aims to foster reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared history, culture, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation.

Key Dates and Events

NRW begins and ends on two significant dates:

• May 27 commemorates the 1967 referendum, in which over 90% of Australians voted in favor of recognizing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the Australian Constitution.
• June 3 is Mabo Day, which celebrates the 1992 High Court decision that overturned the legal fiction of "terra nullius" and recognized the traditional land rights of Indigenous Australians.

During NRW, various events and activities are held across Australia, including:

• Community gatherings
• Educational workshops
• Cultural performances

Importance of Reconciliation

Senator the Hon Malarndirri McCarthy has emphasized the importance of reconciliation for all Australians, stating:

"Reconciliation is not just about saying sorry. It is about changing the way we think about each other and the way we live together. It is about creating a future where all Australians can live in harmony and respect."