Reconciliation Week which takes place from May 27 to June 3, is offering Australians an opportunity to learn and connect with Aboriginal Culture.
The theme for Reconciliation Week 2025 is ‘bridging now to next,’ which aims to encourage cooperation and change for indigenous and non-indigenous people.
Woolyungah Indigenous Centre Administration Officer, Leann Hartley believes ‘bridging now to next’ can foster constructive relationships between Australians.
“It inspires action towards a more inclusive and reconciled nation,” Ms Hartley said.
“Reconciliation week is a broader movement to heal historical and ongoing injustices and foster a united future based on mutual respect and recognition.”
The theme of bridging is important in 2025 as the Australian Government implements solutions for change in the shortcomings of the 2024 Closing the Gap Report.
The focus for this year is to reduce overcrowding, improve food security and health outcomes, while keeping First Nations families safe and increasing economic empowerment.
NSW Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Treaty, David Harris says this theme echoes the sentiments of Closing the Gap.
“The NSW Government is committed to work in partnership with Aboriginal organisations, communities, and people to Close the Gap,” Mr Harris said.
“Our focus is on shared decision-making. We know that when Closing the Gap solutions are designed, led, and implemented by Aboriginal people and communities, in partnership with Government, we get better outcomes.
“All of us in NSW have the chance to be a bridge from now to next.”
The University of Wollongong promoted their Healing and Recognition Track Plan (HART) during Reconciliation Week.
Leann Hartley says there many ways to engage with Aboriginal culture this week.
“Attend Reconciliation & NAIDOC events – don’t be scared to ask questions. Our history is your history,” Mrs Hartley said.
“It’s a step forward. Being resilient, knowing our history, learning from the past and taking that step forward together.”
The Shellharbour City Council are hosting the annual Reconciliation School Flag Walk on Monday, June 2 which will be attended by representatives of UOW.
