Wondering about what to do for National Reconciliation Week? VIA has some tips

On the occasion of National Reconciliation Week (held 27 May to 3 June), the Victorian Inclusion Agency (VIA) has released some information about resources, ideas and supports that can assist early childhood education and care (ECEC) professionals to respectfully incorporate these days of recognition.

26 May 2023 marked the 25th anniversary of National Sorry Day, also marking the commencement of National Reconciliation Week.

“While it is so important to acknowledge days like National Sorry Day, there is still a long way to go to make things fair and equal for First Nations people,” a VIA representative said. 

“The attitude of the next generation will be vital to achieving reconciliation, which is why we must start the conversation early.”

VIA recommends the following resources and ideas as a starting off point for exploration:

• How to introduce children to Sorry Day: watch Play School’s special ‘Walking Together‘ episode on the ABC Kids app or the ABC iView website.
• Make your voice heard for reconciliation: Koorie-approved and culturally safe ways to celebrate in education and care settings, check out the Narragunnawali: Reconciliation in Education platform.
• Webinar – ‘Supporting children and families experiencing racism’: build your awareness of the effects of racism and receive guidance on discussing and addressing it at this webinar with Child Family Community Australia (CFCA) and Emerging Minds.

To further develop knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and history, and learn how to create a service that is inclusive of First Nations Australians not just during National Reconciliation Week, but every day, head to the resources section of VIA’s website.