National Sorry Day – Monday 26 May
National Sorry Day is a time to honour the strength and resilience of the Stolen Generations – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families, and to reflect on the ongoing journey of truth-telling, healing and reconciliation.
Council buildings including the Darebin Arts Centre and the municipal offices in Preston will be lit in purple - the colour of the native hibiscus which is the commemorative flower for the Stolen Generations.
Link-Up Victoria, the Victorian Aboriginal Child and Community Agency, and Connecting Home invite Stolen Generations survivors and their families, community members and others interested in joining us on Dja Dja Wurrung Country to commemorate National Sorry Day.
Bendigo – Sorry Day Commemoration (VACCA, Link-Up Victoria, Connecting Home)
- Time: 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Location: Dja Dja Wurrung Country, Djarra, Larnangurrak (Our Place), 43 Hattam Street, Golden Square, Bendigo
- Details: Welcome to Country by Dja Dja Wurrung Traditional Owner Rebecca Phillips, Smoking Ceremony, guest speaker and cultural performances by the Djaara Dance Group and didgeridoo artist Jason Kerr. Morning tea and coffee provided.
- Transport available for Stolen Generations wishing to attend.
National Reconciliation Week – 27 May to 3 June
This year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next”, invites us all to reflect on how we can build a more just, equitable and unified future together.
Reconciliation is not a one-week commitment – it’s a lifelong journey grounded in truth, respect and partnership. By learning about First Nations cultures, celebrating achievements, and confronting ongoing injustices, we move closer to meaningful and lasting change.
To learn more and explore how to get involved, visit: reconciliation.org.au
Let’s walk together this National Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week to honour the past and help bridge the way to a better future.
Support Services
Discussions around National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week, and 26 January may be distressing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people or may impact social and emotional wellbeing. If you or someone you know needs support, the following services are available:
- 13YARN: 24/7 free and confidential crisis support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Call 13 92 76 or visit 13yarn.org.au
- Australian Indigenous HealthInfoNet: Resources to support the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Visit healthinfonet.ecu.edu.au
We encourage all community members to take care during this time.
|
|