National Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week & 'Wear It Yellow' Day

National Reconciliation Week

Last week was National Reconciliation Week and the staff and students at FPS participated in activities that reflect on our shared cultures, history, and explored how to continue to build reconciliation in Australia. The theme for 2024 was Now More Than Ever. It 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.

Students explored this theme and the history of reconciliation through examining Indigenous literature, exploring Wurundjeri language, learning about Sorry Day & Mabo Day, and hearing stories of the stolen generation. We had considerate discussions and asked questions such as "How can we value First Nations Peoples knowledge and cultures in the way we live our lives?", "What do you think you could do to be an ally?", and "Why is reconciliation important?". Here's what some of our learners had to say:

Reconciliation Week is where we recognise how it felt and feels to be indigenous Australians. We recognise the stolen generation and how we can learn more about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their traditions. ~  Lola & Elodie, 5C

Reconciliation Week is to respect the Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of this land. We learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous people and how we can all move forward. ~ Darcy & Lucien, 5C 

To be a good ally I can listen and be open to learn. ~ Nell, 3A

Reconciliation is important because we need to keep on working towards all being equal. ~ Iliana, 3A

I like watching all the stories and writing about my special place on aboriginal land. ~ Charlie, FC

I like learning about special places on Wurundjeri Country. ~ August, FC

I learnt they burnt the white and green grass at the right time with cool fire to grow fresh, new, green grass. ~ Roy, FC

My favourite thing was wearing yellow to raise money! ~ Edda, FC

I liked everything. I really liked learning about caring for Country by caring for the animals. ~ Maggie, FC

‘Wear it Yellow’ Day

On Thursday 30 May, we held a ‘Wear it Yellow’ day and students and staff were encouraged to wear yellow. All funds raised on ‘Wear it Yellow’ day went directly towards supporting Children’s Ground and delivering self-determination, education, health, and employment opportunities for First Nations people.

Thank you to those who donated. We far surpassed our fundraising goal of $1000, by raising over $2,500! It was wonderful to see FPS come together as a community to discuss the importance of reconciliation and hear the perspectives and voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. 

If you want to find out more about reconciliation at FPS, reach out to our Koorie Perspectives School Improvement Team.

~ Koorie Perspectives School Improvement Team