NAIDOC week reflection

What is NAIDOC Week?

NAIDOC stands for the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. NAIDOC Week is the legacy of the Day of Mourning and Aborigines Day, and exists to celebrate the culture, achievements, and history of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week celebrations are not exclusive to Indigenous communities, as the week is intended for all Australians to learn, reflect, and commemorate.

What is ‘Heal Country’?

“Country is a living entity with a yesterday, today and tomorrow, with a consciousness, and a will toward life.”

- Deborah Bird Rose

‘Heal Country’ calls for the acknowledgement and protection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. As we reflect on events such as the 2020 bushfires, it is crucial for us to listen to the voices of those who have protected our country with traditional and sustainable practices for thousands of years. 

Following the destruction of Juukan Gorge, Heal Country challenges all Australians to reflect on the value they derive from the natural environment.

“If, like us, you find peace, pride and enjoyment from our natural values – our beaches, mountains, rivers, wetlands, forests, deserts and more – then perhaps it’s time to get off the bench and become an advocate for change.”  

- Bhiamie Williamson

More than one week – how do we keep the momentum going?

Learn:

• What country am I on?
• Climate Change in Zenadth Kes.
• Writing an Acknowledgement of Country.
• Free the Flag campaign.

Support:

• Shop from Indigenous-led businesses.
• Organisations to support.

Reflect:

The conclusion of NAIDOC Week saw Indigenous woman and WTA world number one Ash Barty win the Wimbledon title, 50 years after Wiradjuri woman Evonne Goolagong Cawley took home her first Wimbledon crown at age 18.

A proud moment for Australia but also one to reflect on the barriers of Indigenous people to participate in sport.

Find out some more about this here:

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-07-12/ash-barty-wimbledon-win-historic-moment-for-indigenous-people/100285150

https://theconversation.com/sport-can-be-an-important-part-of-aboriginal-culture-for-women-but-many-barriers-remain-120418