Aspire4Life shows its support for National Reconciliation Week

Beginning Wednesday, National Reconciliation Week commemorates the 1967 Referendum acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and the High Court Mabo decision. Collectively building relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories and cultures, the week is also a time for all Australians to learn about our shared past and achievements.

Starting with an online presentation on Wednesday, Aspire4Life staff will have a chance to support and learn about the week through a presentation from Reconciliation Australia’s, Joelle Lowe. Aspire4Life Project Lead and proud Aboriginal Woman, Tash Jessimer, said the connection to Joelle was made possible through Aspire4Life’s application to submit a submission of a draft for its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).

Tash, who is leading the implementation of the RAP, said it was not only important to support the week, but learn about its history and meaning to fully embrace its values.

“Joelle will be presenting on National Reconciliation Week and why we celebrate it, and she’ll talk about how Reconciliation ties into our RAP,” Tash said.

“Staff will also gain a more in-depth understanding of what Reconciliation is and means, and there’ll be a question and answer session, so everyone knows how to get involved.

“It’s really satisfying. We should all be passionate about Reconciliation and it’s important to bring everyone along on the journey, so they know how to play their part.

“This will provide information on how everyone can do that.”

Aspire4Life will also show its support by engaging staff with screenings of In My Blood It Runs, which tells the story of a 10-year-old Aboriginal boy and his family’s strive to provide him with the best education possible. With the values of National Reconciliation Week intertwining with those underlying Aspire4Life’s RAP, Tash said it was important for everyone to get involved.

“Our RAP is focussed on relationships, respect and opportunities and that ties in with the meaning behind National Reconciliation Week,” she said.

“As we continue our journey, National Reconciliation Week will only continue to grow. Australia is a diverse country, and it’s important to Aspire4Life to acknowledge our first peoples and celebrate their culture and history together.”

Visit the National Reconciliation Week website for more ways to engage and show your support.