Our Ngarra Jarra Aboriginal Health team reflect on the significance of this day and share ways you can get involved in National Reconciliation Week which starts tomorrow

Today is National Sorry Day. On this day we acknowledge, remember and recognise members of the Stolen Generations.

National Sorry Day is held annually on 26 May and marks the anniversary of the Bringing Them Home Report which was tabled in Federal Parliament on 26 May 1997. 

“We particularly recognise the suffering and injustice experienced by the Stolen Generations and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples today,” Team Leader of Ngarra Jarra Aboriginal Health Program, Cath Bradley said.

“Through our roles we have heard many individual and family stories firsthand.”

“We know patients who were forcibly removed from their distraught families, and have heard and seen the impact this has had on them.”

Cath explains that these events have led to intergenerational trauma and far ranging impacts on the whole Aboriginal community.

“Many Aboriginal People delay coming into hospital due their fear of government institutions. This has led to a significant health gap and lower life expectancy for Aboriginal Peoples.”

“By acknowledging and remembering the Stolen Generations on National Sorry Day, we’re taking steps towards healing for the community.

“We’re also saying that Austin Health is a safe place for all Aboriginal Peoples.”

“If you’d like to learn more  you can watch this reading of “Sorry Day” which includes a special introduction and afterword from former Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, and is read by actor Trevor Jamieson,” Aboriginal Liaison Officer, Jacob Nelson said.  

Tomorrow is also the beginning of National Reconciliation Week, and is an opportunity for us to embrace, celebrate and learn about Aboriginal culture, history and achievements.

“National Reconciliation Week also commemorates two significant milestones in Australia’s reconciliation journey, the 1967 Referendum and the High Court Mabo decision in 1992,” Jacob said.

The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2020-  “In this Together” -  was chosen by Reconciliation Australia before the coronavirus pandemic and resonates in ways we could not have predicted.

Although National Reconciliation Week will look a little different this year due to COVID-19, there are a number of virtual ways you can participate in the week. Visit: National Reconciliation Australia's 20 ways to be in this together.