UniSA acknowledges the Kaurna, Boandik and Barngarla First Nations People as the Traditional Custodians of the unceded lands that are now home to the University of South Australia’s campuses in Adelaide, Mount Gambier and Whyalla. We respectfully acknowledge their Ancestors and Elders, past, present and future. UniSA also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands, waters and sky across Australia.
It was and always will be Aboriginal land.
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation.
This year’s theme ‘Be a Voice for Generations’ encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives, so we can have a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all.
UniSA will be celebrating NRW through a variety of on-campus and online events, so everyone can get involved. We invite all of you to participate in the many activities we offer.
Learn about the great strides that generations of Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians have made in the journey towards reconciliation.
UniSA PhD candidate, Mikayla King, and UniSA Vice Chancellor, Professor David Lloyd, share their thoughts and support for National Reconciliation Week.
In addition to events and activities held by UniSA, there are a variety of other free events hosted by local organisations and community groups in South Australia, including art exhibitions, workshops, tennis carnival, movie night, film screenings, community BBQ, and many other community celebrations. Nunga Screen 2023 will also be touring across regional SA, presenting a diverse film program for cinema-goers of all ages. Check out the full Nunga Screen schedule and locations on their website.
SEE THE FULL LIST OF COMMUNITY EVENTS
First Nations peoples have a long legacy of speaking up for their communities, but their voices have been excluded or buried under the voices of non-Indigenous people. Turn down the noise: listen before you speak. Be an active ally.
Speak up about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander successes, cultures and people. Recognise sovereignty by Acknowledging Country and by respectfully prioritising Traditional Owners voices.
Racism damages lives and livelihoods, and it hurts the whole community. Notice the bias in personal conversations. Speak up when you hear something ignorant, hurtful or not right.
If you didn’t learn about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures at school, speak up to make sure our kids do now. Find info for schools and early learning services on the Narragunnawali website and at Learn our Truth.
Connect with your local Traditional Custodians and First Nations groups to find out what issues you should stand with them on and help amplify their voices. Find your local reconciliation group and collaborate on efforts.
When talking about the story of Australia, state the facts. Always note the continued presence and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Support First Nations people’s truth-telling, in whatever form.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are the most incarcerated people in the world, proportionally. Learn and understand why this is so. Speak out and challenge our leaders to take action on justice.
Learn the history of representative bodies and calls for treaty. Find out if your state has started its treaty process. Listen to the calls, debates and discussions by First Peoples on treaties, constitutional reform, and Voice to Parliament.
Understand the strengths in First Nations community control in governing, health, education curricula, and media representation. Speak up for and support community-controlled and Indigenous governed organisations.
Show you support First Nations ownership and custodianship of Country. Learn about Land Rights and Native Title in Australia. Support or join land justice efforts and advocacy near you.
Support First Nations businesses as contractors, suppliers, and producers. Purchase Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander art or products only from Indigenous-owned businesses.