Student Reporters

Reconciliation Week

Reconciliation Week is a time to “Be Strong - Be Determined - Be Proud - Be Bold”. It is a time where we recognise the Aboriginal culture in Australia and the part that they played in our history. This week, we recognise the roots of the Aboriginal people who came before us, and that the time has come to create a land bonded by relationships, love, understanding and acceptance.

We interviewed Taesharn Crowe about what reconciliation week means to her.

Q- What does reconciliation week mean to you?

A – Reconciliation week is all about being proud of who you are, particularly if you have an indigenous background. During this week, we are encouraged to think about what we can do as individuals to make positive changes in our community, to acknowledge our indigenous cultures and history. 

Q – At our school assembly, what did you and Max as School Captains talk about regarding Reconciliation Week?

A – We talked about my personal background – I am from Wiradjiri that stretches from the three rivers (located in NSW) and my totum is a goanna. We also talked about where we stand when we are at school – we are standing on Yorta Yorta land, a land with a long, proud history. 

Max discussed why we have an “Acknowledgement of Country” at the beginning of each assembly and the importance of the Aboriginal culture in Australian history.

Q - If you were to celebrating reconciliation week, how would you celebrate it?

A – I would honour indigenous food by making traditional dishes like damper (which is really yummy!), listen to my cousin play his digeridoo and create some Koori art like dot paintings. 

Reconciliation Week is celebrated once a year in Australia from the 27thMay to the 3rd June, but its lessons should be carried with all of us throughout the year. 

Reported by Charlotte, Anna and Ella