Speech given at the 2013 Reconciliation Week event

Opening Statement
We have gathered here to celebrate 2013 Reconciliation Week and to acknowledge the heritage and
culture of the Traditional Owners and Custodians of our land, the Aboriginal people.
The theme of Reconciliation Week this year is “Let’s talk Reconciliation” and the NSW Reconciliation
Council website states that:
” Reconciliation is about recognising the truth of Australia’s history, and moving forward together
with a commitment to social justice, and building relationships based on mutual understanding,
respect and trust”
The same website also states:
” Reconciliation is about addressing the divisions between Indigenous and non-lndigenous
Australians, divisions that have been caused by a lack of respect, knowledge and understanding.”
Therefore, a big part of achieving reconciliation involves raising awareness and knowledge of history
and culture of the First People of Australia.
This was the aim of the project instigated by the Canterbury Aboriginal Advisory Group which we are
launching today.
About the project
Named by the participants themselves, the project was called “Our Reconciliation Story” and it
brought together 14 people of diverse cultures and Aboriginal residents to share their stories, and
learn about the heritage of the First People of Australia through art.
Jointly, thevve created a banner which reflects the deep connection of the Aboriginal people with
the land and nature, and incorporating some symbols of the different tribes that they came from.