Reconciliation & What It Means to You
What does the term ‘reconciliation’ mean to you? For many, it’s a word that carries with it deep meaning and significance. But what does reconciliation actually entail? And how can we achieve it in our communities? In this blog post, we’ll explore these questions and provide some insights into the reconciliation process.
Reconciliation is the coming together of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It is about building relationships, trust and respect. It is also about creating opportunities for all Australians to learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories and perspectives. Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and as a nation. Reconciliation is everyone’s business. The key to reconciliation is mutual respect. Reconciliation is about building strong relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. These relationships are the foundation for a bright future where all Australians can live together harmoniously with a shared sense of history, identity and citizenship.
Reconciliation must be based on truth-telling about our history. We need to acknowledge the past and present mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and work together to ensure that all Australians have a clear understanding of our shared history. Reconciliation also requires economic empowerment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This means closing the gap in health, education and employment outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
Reconciliation is an important part of our healing process as individuals and as a nation. It allows us to take responsibility for our actions, and work towards rebuilding the relationships that have been damaged. Reconciliation is also a way of showing respect for the other person or group involved. It recognises the pain that has been caused, and sets us on a path towards healing and understanding. Reconciliation is an important step in our journey towards a more just and peaceful society.
When reflecting on reconciliation, it is important to consider what it means to you and how you can contribute to the process. What are your motivations for reconciling? How will you ensure that everyone involved feels heard and respected? What steps do you need to take to make things right?
The theme for reconciliation this year is ‘Be Brave. Make Change.’ So I challenge you, I challenge you to be brave and make change. Make change in your school, in your workplace, your personal life and in your community. Do your part and become educated and share knowledge of reconciliation and what it means in any way that you can. Take time to reflect and find what reconciliation truly means to you. And lastly I challenge you to emerge yourself in the rich and amazing culture that surrounds you, and become immersed in your communities reconciliation events.
Empowered Community Services acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live, the Awabakal people of Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Abroginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.
