National Reconciliation Week
National Reconciliation Week is a time when all Australians learn about our shared history — especially the history between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians.
It’s a special week to:
- Learn the truth about the past, like the Stolen Generations
- Say sorry for the things that caused hurt
- Show respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
- Work together to make things fair and kind for everyone
It happens every year from 27 May to 3 June. These dates are important because they remind us of two big events:
- 27 May – when Aboriginal people were included in the Australian Constitution (1967)
- 3 June – when the High Court said that Aboriginal people have rights to their land (Mabo Decision, 1992)
Reconciliation means coming together, listening, and building a better future — where everyone feels included, respected, and proud.
How are we celebrating at St. Kilian's?
- Each morning at the first bell, a Grade 6 leader will acknowledge country over the PA system
- Daily activities in the classroom celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture and heritage.
- Special prayers and a liturgy at Monday morning Assembly, and in the classrooms
- Sections in the School Newsletter and on Facebook about National Reconciliation Week and National Sorry Day
Want to do some more activities at home?
This week’s Mindful Moment invites families to explore and celebrate Indigenous culture together at home as part of National Reconciliation Week. The page includes a variety of resources—such as videos, stories, art activities, and music—that help deepen understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, and perspectives. It's a great opportunity to reflect as a family on the theme of reconciliation and how we can walk together with respect and kindness.
You can access the page here: St. Kilian's Mindful Moment - T2W5 - Yindyamarra
National Sorry Day - May 26
National Sorry Day is a special day in Australia when we remember Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken away from their families a long time ago. These children are called the Stolen Generations.
It was a very sad time because many children didn’t get to grow up with their mums, dads, or culture. Some never saw their families again.
On Sorry Day, we say sorry for what happened and show that we care. It’s a time to:
- Remember the past
- Say sorry
- And promise to be kind and fair to everyone
It’s also a chance to learn, listen, and make sure everyone feels safe, loved, and respected — now and in the future.
Acknowledging the Stolen Generations on National Sorry Day - Behind the News
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QKU9rVKMxuY
Watch the video and then use the discussion questions to break open National Sorry Day.
Understanding the Story
- What is National Sorry Day?
- Who are the Stolen Generations?
- Why were Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children taken away from their families?
Feelings and Empathy
- How do you think the children felt when they were taken from their families?
- How do you think their mums, dads, and grandparents felt?
- Why do you think saying “sorry” is important?
Learning and Respecting
- What can we do to show respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today?
- How can we help everyone feel safe, included, and cared for at school?
- Why is it important to remember stories from the past?
Prayer for National Sorry Day
Dear God,
Today we remember the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were taken from their families.
We feel sad that this happened, and we say sorry.
Please help us to be people who care for others, who listen, and who try to make things right.
Help us to build a world where everyone is treated fairly, and no one is left out or hurt.
May our hearts be full of love, and our hands ready to help.
Amen.