More Than a Word - Reconciliation Week 2021

2021 marks the 20th anniversary of Australia’s National Reconciliation Week held from the 27th of May to the 3rd of June. 

This year’s theme, ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action’ urges the reconciliation movement towards braver and more impactful action.

Butchulla woman Kym Walker, working with the Maryborough Wide Bay and Burnett Historical Society, has a passion to discover and share the stories of our local indigenous history. It is Kym's belief that by recognising and learning from our past stories we will be able to move forward in achieving reconciliation.

In this year's campaign ‘Don’t keep history a mystery: Learn, Share, Grow”, Kym looks forward to sharing the lesser-known historical facts and achievements of our indigenous people. 

With local snapshots of indigenous housing schemes that gave local families roofs over their heads and wonderful sporting achievements of an Olympic level, the Historical Society will have an exhibition at Gatakers Artspace from the 26th of May to the 5th of June.

The exhibition will also cover significant historical milestones, including the successful 27th of May 1967 Referendum which altered the Australian Constitution. More than 90 per cent of Australian voters chose ‘Yes’ to count Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the census and give the Australian Government the power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Prior to this Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were classed as flora and fauna in the national census.

"It is a time for us all to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements, and to explore how we can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia." – Kym Walker

Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Story: Gayel Airs

Photo: Hayden Whittle
 

EXHIBITION EXTENDED!

Don't Keep History a Mystery: Learn, Share, Grow

Maryborough Wide Bay and Burnett Historical Society
Dates: Wednesday 26 May to Saturday 5 June 2021
Time: 9:30am - 2pm.
Location: Gatakers Creative Space (311 Kent Street)