reconciliation week 2025

Reconciliation Week 2025: Bridging Now to Next for a United Australia

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is an annual event in Australia, held from May 27th to June 3rd, that celebrates and promotes reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader Australian community. As we approach Reconciliation Week 2025, anticipation is building for a week of reflection, learning, and action. This year's theme, "Bridging Now to Next," encourages all Australians to step forward together, learn from the past, and continue the journey toward a more just and equitable future.

What's Happening for Reconciliation Week 2025?

While the full schedule of events for National Reconciliation Week 2025 is still unfolding, several exciting initiatives and activities are already planned across the country.

• Community Events: Local councils, community groups, and organisations are hosting a variety of events, including flag-raising ceremonies, cultural performances, workshops, and film screenings. The City of Ballarat, for example, has announced a program of events to mark NRW 2025. In Bundaberg, activities will include a flag-raising, library events, and a free movie screening.
• Marches and Gatherings: Reflecting on the powerful Corroboree 2000 march, communities are organising marches and gatherings to demonstrate their commitment to reconciliation. Locals in some regions are invited to participate in a march from Town Square to Sturt Park on May 28th.
• Educational Initiatives: Schools and educational institutions are embracing the "Bridging Now to Next" theme by incorporating reconciliation into their curriculum and activities. AITSL (Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership) is encouraging schools and early learning services to reflect and build momentum towards reconciliation. Educational resources are available to help families and friends learn together.

Recent Updates on Reconciliation Efforts

Recent news reports and statements highlight the ongoing commitment to reconciliation across Australia.

• Optimism for the Future: As Reconciliation Week nears, Indigenous leaders like Emma Garlett have expressed optimism for the future, emphasising the importance of continuing the reconciliation journey.
• Reflecting on the Past: The 25th anniversary of Corroboree 2000 provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain in achieving true reconciliation. As The Conversation notes, the march for Indigenous reconciliation has left a complicated legacy, underscoring the need for continued effort and dialogue.
• Local Voices: Community newspapers like the Ocean Grove Voice are amplifying local voices and stories related to reconciliation, fostering a sense of connection and understanding.

The Historical Context of Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week evolved from the "Week of Prayer for Reconciliation" in 1993, and by 1996, it was known as National Reconciliation Week. The dates that bookend the week hold particular significance in Australia's reconciliation journey:

• May 27th: Marks the anniversary of the 1967 referendum, in which Australians voted overwhelmingly to amend the Constitution to include Aboriginal people in the census and allow the Commonwealth to make laws for them. This was a landmark moment in recognising Indigenous rights.
• June 3rd: Commemorates the 1992 Mabo decision, in which the High Court of Australia recognised Native Title, overturning the legal fiction of terra nullius (land belonging to no one) that had been used to justify the colonisation of Australia.

These two dates serve as powerful reminders of the historical injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the ongoing struggle for recognition and rights.

Understanding the Theme: "Bridging Now to Next"

The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2025, "Bridging Now to Next," is a call to action, urging Australians to build on the progress made in reconciliation and to look ahead to a future where Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians live together in harmony and mutual respect.

• Learning from the Past: The theme emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging Australia's shared history, including the injustices and trauma experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By learning from the past, we can avoid repeating mistakes and create a more just future.
• Building Relationships: "Bridging Now to Next" encourages Australians to build strong, respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This involves listening to Indigenous voices, valuing Indigenous cultures, and working together to address the challenges facing Indigenous communities.
• Creating Opportunities: The theme calls for creating opportunities for Indigenous Australians to thrive, including access to education, employment, healthcare, and housing. This requires addressing systemic inequalities and creating a level playing field for all Australians.

Bree Buttenshaw, a Kalkadoon woman who created the theme, uses the symbolism of native plants and the possibilities of renewal to reflect the spirit of the week.

Immediate Effects of Reconciliation Week

National Reconciliation Week has a number of immediate and far-reaching effects on Australian society:

• Raising Awareness: NRW provides a platform for raising awareness about Indigenous issues and promoting understanding of Indigenous cultures and perspectives. The SBS and NITV networks dedicate significant coverage to NRW, celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous communities.
• Driving Action: NRW inspires individuals, organisations, and governments to take action to advance reconciliation. This can include implementing Reconciliation Action Plans (RAPs), supporting Indigenous businesses, and advocating for policy changes that benefit Indigenous communities.
• Fostering Dialogue: NRW creates opportunities for dialogue and conversation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. These conversations can help to break down barriers, build trust, and foster a sense of shared responsibility for reconciliation.

The Future Outlook for Reconciliation in Australia

The journey toward reconciliation in Australia is ongoing, and there are many challenges and opportunities ahead.

• Truth-telling and Healing: A critical step in the reconciliation process is truth-telling about Australia's colonial history and its impact on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This includes acknowledging the injustices of the past, addressing intergenerational trauma, and creating pathways for healing.
• Constitutional Recognition: Many Australians believe that constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is essential for achieving true reconciliation. This could involve enshrining a First Nations Voice to Parliament in the Constitution, giving Indigenous Australians a greater say in the laws and policies that affect their lives.
• Closing the Gap: The "Closing the Gap" strategy aims to reduce inequalities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians in areas such as health, education, employment, and housing. While progress has been made in some areas, significant challenges remain, and renewed efforts are needed to achieve the targets.
• Economic Empowerment: Supporting Indigenous businesses and promoting economic empowerment is crucial for creating sustainable opportunities for Indigenous communities. This includes providing access to capital, training, and markets, and fostering a supportive business environment.

How to Get Involved in Reconciliation Week 2025

There are many ways to get involved in National Reconciliation Week 2025 and contribute to the reconciliation journey:

• Attend an Event: Find a National Reconciliation Week event in your local community and participate in the activities.
• Educate Yourself: Learn more about Indigenous history, cultures, and perspectives by reading books, watching documentaries, and visiting Indigenous cultural centres.
• Engage in Dialogue: Have conversations with Indigenous people and listen to their stories and perspectives.
• Support Indigenous Businesses: Purchase goods and services from Indigenous-owned businesses.
• Advocate for Change: Contact your local MP and advocate for policies that support reconciliation.
• Share on Social Media: Use the hashtag #NRW2025 to share your experiences and promote reconciliation on social media. You can download digital resources to share online.
• Display a Poster: Get a free hardcopy poster from an Officeworks store nationwide and display it in your home or workplace.

Conclusion: Stepping Forward Together

National Reconciliation Week 2025, with its theme "Bridging Now to Next," provides a valuable opportunity for all Australians to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and work together to create a more just and equitable future. By embracing the spirit of reconciliation, we can build a stronger, more united Australia where all people are valued and respected. It's a time to step forward together, guided by past lessons, and continue the push toward a truly reconciled nation.