Now More Than Ever is the theme of National Reconciliation Week (NRW) in 2024. The theme expresses the determination of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to continue their struggle for justice in the wake of the Voice to Parliament referendum loss in 2023. NRW is May 27 – June 3.
Many First Nations Australians were devastated by the outcome of the referendum. That should not be forgotten by anyone. Nor should we forget the significant gap between First Nations Peoples and other Australians. That is especially the case when it comes to rates of incarceration, suicide and children in out-of-home care.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are telling us that, now, more than ever, they need the support of all Australians to close the gap and to address the injustices they face.
Despite the loss of the referendum vote, the Uluru Statement from the Heart still encapsulates the hopes and dreams of many First Nations Peoples.
In the 2023 – 2024 Social Justice Statement, Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Australia’s Bishops committed the Church to continue supporting First Nations Peoples in their struggle for justice, whatever the outcome of the referendum.
Now is the time for us to re-commit ourselves to walking with First Nations People on the journey towards a just and reconciled Australia.
Our office has produced a resource to help you to reflect on the post-referendum reality and to take action, available below.
Don’t forget that National Sorry Day is this Sunday May 26. We have also produced a resource to help you to support First Nations Peoples on this day which stirs up so much pain. You can find the resource here.
Don’t forget, also, that National Reconciliation Week is May 27 to June 3. There’s sure to be many events in which you can participate in your local community.