The City of Whittlesea has marked National Sorry Day with a moving ceremony to remember the Stolen Generations and reflect on the resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
National Sorry Day, which leads into National Reconciliation Week from May 27 to June 3, commemorates the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were removed from their communities and families.
While the annual day fell on a Sunday this year, City of Whittlesea held its ceremony at the Civic Centre in South Morang on May 27 to ensure staff, students, and community members could attend to pay their respects.
A smoking ceremony led by Wurundjeri man Thane Garvey commenced the service before attendees observed a minute’s silence.
Gunditjmara man and First Peoples’ Assembly Member (Treaty) for North Metro Troy Austin delivered the keynote address.
Proud Yamatji Noongar woman Aunty Sharon Hughes led attendees on the annual Sorry Day Walk around the Civic Centre, where those present apologised for the wrongs of the past.
City of Whittlesea Administrator and Whittlesea Reconciliation Group Member Peita Duncan said National Sorry Day was a crucial time to learn about shared histories.
“On National Sorry Day, we say sorry to the Stolen Generations and acknowledge the pain and suffering still felt by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community,” she said.
“We also come together to recognise the remarkable strength, courage, and resilience demonstrated by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.”
This year’s theme for reconciliation week is ‘Now More Than Ever’.
Council is working to advance reconciliation through several initiatives, including establishing an Aboriginal Gathering Place at Quarry Hills and developing its Aboriginal Action Plan.
