Lived Experience Forum

[tyme]

National Reconciliation Week falls on 27th May - 3rd June each year.

This year's theme is: BE A VOICE FOR GENERATIONS

SANE acknowledges the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as traditional custodians of the land on which it operates, and pays respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

SANE strives to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways. For the work of generations past, and the benefit of generations future, SANE works towards creating a just, equitable and reconciled country for all.

We stand here today to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

We honour the Indigenous peoples of this land, and welcome all here today to share how they have been a voice for reconciliation.

What is something you have, or would like to do in your daily life as part of being a voice for reconciliation?

We encourage all to share.

[RachSANECEO]

I think it’s a great step forward that preschools and primary schools are covering history now on the stolen generations.

Decades ago, education was so basic and now we are beginning to tell the story truthfully, right from the start. 

To quote Kevin Rudd:

The time has now come for the nation to turn a new page in Australia’s history by righting the wrongs of the past and so moving forward with confidence to the future.

We apologise for the laws and policies of successive Parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians.

We apologise especially for the removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, their communities and their country.

For the pain, suffering and hurt of these Stolen Generations, their descendants and for their families left behind, we say sorry.

To the mothers and the fathers, the brothers and the sisters, for the breaking up of families and communities, we say sorry.

And for the indignity and degradation thus inflicted on a proud people and a proud culture, we say sorry.

Today, to mark sorry day SANE Patron Janet Meagher and Chair Lucy Myer joined me in Sydney with staff for a smoking ceremony with our staff to mark sorry day and also mark the commencement of our reconciliation action plan. 

[Jay5]

Thank you for writing this @tyme and thanks for sharing @RachSANECEO

I agree how good is it that schools are covering this more, and even just the local community.
It makes me really proud of as an Arrernte man raising little people to stand proud and makes me excited for what the future holds, not nervous or scared, because we ARE heading in the right direction, but it takes everyone to do that, ally’s included.  🖤💛❤️

[tyme]

Thank you for sharing @Jay5 @RachSANECEO  🙂

[Mk333]

Hi @Jay5 

Great reply.

Arrernte man.

Good on you for sharing