To mark National Reconciliation Week, Assumption College Kilmore is undertaking activities to demonstrate its commitment to engagement with and education about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture.
National Reconciliation Week, from May 27 to June 3, this year has the theme ‘Be Brave Make Change’, which challenges people to tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation and make change for the benefit of all Australians.
“Our college has implemented various strategies to increase understanding, value and recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, histories, knowledge and rights through cultural learning,” principal Kate Fogarty said.
“We use Reconciliation Week to highlight and celebrate the cultural contribution of First Nations people and to build and strengthen relationships with people of all faiths and cultures in our community.
“Embracing and celebrating cultural diversity in our school is important. Exploring, understanding and valuing difference helps us recognise and respect others.”
Ms Fogarty said students, as part of a First Nations Indigenous studies class, made a beautiful piece of Aboriginal-inspired art, which would be officially unveiled in the Taungurung Garden during National Reconciliation Week.
“This artwork will be a visual reminder to all visitors that reconciliation is everybody’s business any time of the year. The art resembles the Indigenous flag,” she said.
“The Assumption College Firsts football, netball and basketball teams will participate in an Indigenous round wearing a specialised designed Indigenous jersey.
“This Indigenous jersey has been created for this round featuring Indigenous art representing stories and culture. The sporting jerseys have been designed by Mick Harding, a local Aboriginal Elder.
“The Indigenous Sporting Round with the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria, AGSV, is a very important one.
“Our players were unable to show their support in 2021 as COVID restrictions halted play of sport. Our students are therefore extremely proud to be able to put on this specially designed jersey to build cultural awareness this year.
“Indigenous round is a great opportunity to highlight the contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people make to schools, sport, and the wider community. It also provides an opportunity to work towards a better understanding and reconciliation.”
