National Reconciliation Week 2024
Scouts Australia values and recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage as a proud part of a shared national identity. Reconciliation is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians.
The National Reconciliation Week theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.
Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Here are a few ideas of ways in which Units can incorporate reconciliation actions into their program:
- Print and display an Acknowledgement of Country for your hall, and incorporate it into opening or closing parades
- Display the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island flags in your hall (you can obtain these for free from your Federal MP’s office)
- Research the Aboriginal names for local landmarks such as mountains, rivers or lakes
- Incorporate Aboriginal history and placename research into the planning for hikes or camps
- Teach the Aboriginal names for local indigenous animals or plants
- Purchase a map of Aboriginal Australia from the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) for your hall
- Make sure that key dates are included in your planning, such as NAIDOC Week, Sorry Day, National Reconciliation Week or Aboriginal Children’s Day
- Invite Aboriginal elders and community members to join Scout events like ARA presentations or regular nights
Click below button to find out more on National Reconciliation Week and events around your area.
