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Remembering the National Apology

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February 13 marks the 15th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations.

On this day, we remember and recognise the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who have been forcibly removed from their families throughout our history. From the mid-1800s to the 1970s, children were placed in institutions or foster care with non-Indigenous families, disconnecting them from Country and culture.

The trauma and loss caused by the removal of children from their families has had an intergenerational impact that continues to affect many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities today.

In 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made a historic apology for the “laws and policies of successive Parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians.”

In 2023, the work to address these wrongs is far from done. The anniversary of the National Apology provides a meaningful opportunity for all Australians to learn more about our history and to reflect and acknowledge the pains of the past.

In May Council will once again hold its annual Sorry Day ceremony as part of our ongoing journey of truth telling and healing.

Council is currently developing its first Reconciliation Action Plan with the support of local Elders, Aboriginal leaders and representation from Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations. This Plan will ensure our acknowledgement and respect of First Nations people is embedded in our daily ways of working.

The plan is expected to be finalised and endorsed by Reconciliation Australia in the coming months.

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