National Apology

National Apology Day Commemoration, Wagga Wagga City Council

Students and staff were invited to attend the 15 Year Anniversary of the formal Apology to past victims and survivors of the Stolen Generations on Monday, February 13, at the Wagga Wagga City Council Chambers.

February 13 marks a significant day for all Australians, as it was on this day in 2008, that then Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, formally apologised on behalf of the Federal Government for the forcible removal of First Nations children from their families; for the profound trauma, loss of families, grieving communities and culture, that continues to affect Indigenous Peoples and communities today.

The delivery of the Apology in 2008 was an important step towards healing, a deep ongoing commitment across the nation to ensure that the profound sorrow expressed on that day leads to an honest understanding and a brighter future.

The commemoration at Council was led by local primary and secondary students, with heart-felt contributions ranging from speeches, poetry, music and dance. It was also an opportunity for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to meet with Elders, community members and with their peers from other schools.

Thank you to our senior students - Katarina, Taylah, Isabella - Jane, Tempey and Tom for representing our College. This was an opportunity for them to develop deeper understanding, support cultural journeys, and express their hopes for the future.

Our attendance at the commemoration allowed for reflective space and time, on that day to remember, to celebrate, to rejoice, to grieve, to offer support, to learn, to speak out, to listen, to heal, and most of all to be together as a united and caring people of this country.

Mr Jason Jolley and Ms Tahnee Rooke | Aboriginal School and Community Workers