National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is acknowledged annually, from 27 May to 3 June. This year’s theme is “More than a word. Reconciliation takes action,” and it urges the reconciliation movement to move towards braver and more impactful action.
Reconciliation is a journey for all Australians – as individuals, families, communities, organisations and importantly as a nation. At the heart of this journey are relationships between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Council recognises the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Country and remains committed to progressing reconciliation outcomes through the development of a new Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). This is currently being drafted for release later this year.
We are committed to the principles that inform our Draft Reconciliation Action Plan, those of: relationship, respect and opportunities.
A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a strategic document that includes practical actions to drive an organisation’s role and contribution to reconciliation. It focuses on strengthening relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, engaging staff and stakeholders in reconciliation and developing strategies to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Manningham Mayor, Cr Andrew Conlon said that reconciliation is a journey that we are all on and that we are committed to developing strong relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
“We believe that developing strong relationships with the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung, the Traditional Custodians, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, is essential. It will ensure we are best placed to respond to community needs and the principles of self-determination.”
“'We will host a program of events to celebrate National Reconciliation Week and I would encourage everyone to join us and seek out events and celebrations in their own communities. Be sure to check to see if events are still on given the latest COVID-19 outbreak and seek out ways to connect with Country.”
We are proud of the relationships that have been formed between Councillors, officers and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, and are committed to regular cultural consultation meetings with the Elders. At Manningham, we hope that through our actions, we can ensure reconciliation remains at the core of everything we do.
Council has an interpreter service that can be reached on (03) 9840 9355 for any resident that would like to call and arrange to speak to someone in their own language about any Manningham Council matter.
