25 May 2017
The University of South Australia will hold a special symposium on May 30 during National Reconciliation Week to look at what has changed for Aboriginal people since the 1967 referendum and to explore the way ahead.
The symposium, to be held from 6 pm on May 30 at UniSA’s City West campus, Bradley Forum, features six speakers, sharing perspectives in key areas such as health, education, law, and professional education and career development.
University of South Australia Pro Vice Chancellor Aboriginal Leadership, Strategy, and Professor of Law at UniSA, Irene Watson, says the symposium will explore both the challenges and opportunities ahead for Aboriginal people.
“We have a respected University panel – including Vice Chancellor David Lloyd, Dean of Aboriginal Engagement and Strategic Projects, Professor Peter Buckskin; Dean of Clinical Education and Equity in Health Sciences, Professor Esther May, Professor of Education, Lester-Irabinna Rigney and doctor and Chair in Aboriginal Health at UniSA’s Sansom Institute, Professor Alex Brown – and they will bring a wide range of experience to the discussions,” Prof Watson says.
“As educators we have many points of influence.
“How and what we teach, the supports we put in place for Aboriginal students, the areas of research we make our focus, the expertise we can provide in society and the way we model reconciliation and Aboriginal empowerment institutionally, all contribute to shaping the future.
“This symposium provides a special opportunity to reflect on all the changes, good and bad, that have occurred since 1967 and to hear from leaders in their field about ‘the next steps’ for Aboriginal people and for Australian society, steps towards equality and recognition.”
Kaurna elder, Uncle Lewis O’Brien will give the Welcome to Country and Sophie Murray will be the MC for the evening.
Media contact: Michèle Nardelli mobile 0418 823 673 email michele.nardelli@unisa.edu.au
