Today marks 15 years since Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, officially apologised to the Stolen Generations.
For members of the Stolen Generations the apology was a starting point for healing their wounds and signified commitment for a united future between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Hume’s reconciliation actions are guided by our (RAP), which aims to create meaningful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the broader community through working on real actions that make a difference in the community.
Since 2019, the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group (RAPWG) has been guiding the implementation of the RAP and advising Council on priorities of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Made up of First Nations community members from Hume, the RAPWG has played a role in:
improving Council’s engagement with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community
increasing public interest in engaging with Hume’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities
improving relationships with key Aboriginal stakeholders including the Traditional Owner Group, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation and;
the Stolen Generations Marker Working Group and launch of the Stolen Generations Marker in Craigieburn.
The RAPWG are also tasked with developing a new RAP for 2023-2025. The group will be speaking with Hume’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community to help draft actions for the new RAP.
In late 2022, the Hume Stolen Generations Marker was launched as a tribute and mark of respect to the Stolen Generations. Developed in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, the Marker acknowledges the harm caused to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families and communities across the nation.
The Marker provides a place for Stolen Generations survivors and their families to gather and reflect and allows all Australians the opportunity to understand historical wrong doings and help our communities find peace and belonging.
Mayor of Hume City, Councillor Joseph Haweil said the Anniversary of the Apology is an opportunity to reflect on the ways reconciliation is progressing and how much more still needs to be done.
“It’s important we reflect on the past injustices experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and work towards a united future.”
“We are thankful to the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group who guide and support us to understand the key issues and priorities of Hume’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members.”
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