Anniversary National Apology

10th ANNIVERSARY OF THE NATIONAL APOLOGY TO THE STOLEN GENERATIONS 

National Apology to Stolen Generations by the Federal Parliament on February 13, 2008, was an important milestone in healing and truth for all Australians. It was an official recognition of the truth about our shared history, and extended the hand of apology to those Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that had been blighted by past government policies of forced child removal and assimilation.

At Mater Dei, we believe that saying Sorry is an important part of healing, and that it is still important to acknowledge the emotion felt by the many survivors who felt their stories had finally been acknowledged on this day, and by the many other Australians who joined in.

It was our solemn pleasure to be a part of a delegation of students from across the Wagga Wagga Diocese, who attended the local commemoration of this event at the Murrumbidaya Wetlands.

Joining with students from Wagga Wagga, Coolamon and Leeton, we were welcomed to Country by Aunty Kath Withers, and heard important reflections from other speakers such as Wagga Wagga lord Mayor Greg Conkey, and Mt Austin High School Captain Layhnee Kearnes.

Following morning tea, we were able to take the opportunity take a walk around this amazing place -a testament to the wonderful things that can be achieved when people of good – will from diverse cultural backgrounds work together.

A big thank you to Principals, CSO Staff and our Aboriginal Schools and Community Workers, for their continued support of our Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island students and for recognition of the issues important to our local Aboriginal families and community.

Much thanks also, for the respectful way our students conducted themselves and engaged in the moment.

The commemoration at Murrumbiday Wetlands was a fine example of Australians celebrating together, and renewing respectful relationships with each other.

Community members gathering for the ceremony

Mr Jason Jolley

Aboriginal School

Community Worker