Marrung
Aboriginal Education Plan
National Reconciliation Week 2024
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is approaching and our school is looking forward to taking part. Our CBL Big Idea of 'Country' perfectly aligns with this week. Details about NRW are below:
May 27 to June 3 is National Reconciliation Week. This week 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 in Australia. The dates for NRW remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.
The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2024, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue. There have been many moments in Australia’s reconciliation journey that make us want to turn away. But when things are divisive, the worst thing we can do is disengage or disconnect.
Now more than ever, we need to tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation.
Now more than ever, the work continues. In treaty making, in truth-telling, in understanding our history, in education, and in tackling racism. We need connection. We need respect. We need action. And we need change.
Now more than ever, we need reconciliation.
Source: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/
ABOUT THE ARTWORK
The National Reconciliation Week 2024 design and artwork represent the momentum of the theme Now More Than Ever. The chevron, a universal symbol for pointing the way, signifies advancing as one as we look towards a reconciled future; and the vibrant artwork of Gubbi Gubbi artist Maggie Douglas encourages connecting with one another, understanding and continuing to move forward.
Events:
Our Commitment to Reconciliation
Our school has a Reconciliation Action Plan which can be viewed here:
Our vision for reconciliation at WPPS:
At Wonga Park Primary School, we warmly invite everyone to join us on a journey of reconciliation; a heartfelt process aimed at nurturing understanding and connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community. Within our school, we hold a deep appreciation for the oldest cultures on Earth and are eager to explore how we can honour and respect Country and First Nations peoples.
We believe in learning from the wisdom of the past, listening to stories that shape our shared history, and actively contributing to a future where fairness and opportunity are equal and equitable for both Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non- Indigenous people. Our aspiration is to embody understanding and respect for First Nations peoples, incorporating these values into our daily actions and endeavours. Central to our commitment is the development of meaningful relationships with local Aboriginal Elders. We understand the importance of learning from their wisdom, experiences, and stories which have shaped our shared history.
At Wonga Park Primary School, we are committed to being open to feedback, embracing opportunities for growth, and making meaningful strides toward reconciliation. We invite all in our sphere of influence to join our reconciliation journey with passion and kindness as we aim to create a space where First Nations peoples are not only seen and heard, but also deeply respected, as we collectively work towards fostering a community which celebrates the richness of our diverse community.
We look forward to sharing what our community works towards in the lead up, during and after National Reconciliation Week.
Tim Phillips
Marrung Leader