A message from Wayahead’s CEO Sharon Grocott
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a significant time to acknowledge and support the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community. Wayahead recognises the invaluable contributions of Elders and leaders across Australia, who have contributed to a range of mental health programs that are not only strength-based but led by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
NRW is essential as it aims to work towards healing and acknowledges the First Nations people and their culture, which is deeply rooted in connection to country, family, kin, and community. It is also a time to recognise the disparities experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in mental health.
National Reconciliation Australia’s theme for 2024, Now More Than Ever, serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The theme acknowledges the inter-generational impact that colonisation has had on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and emphasises the need for continued efforts to address historical injustices.
Wayahead is committed to reflecting on and improving its cultural practices concerning First Nations people to ensure our programs and initiatives are culturally safe. We recognise that embedding cultural practice and cultural safety is an ongoing journey. Wayahead is committed to reconciliation and the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. NRW is important for embracing First Nations culture and history, as well as working towards healing and unity.
A message from Jeremy Heathcote from Wayahead’s Board
Every year on 26 May, National Sorry Day reminds all Australians of the strengths of our Stolen Generation Survivors and asks us to reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation. It also marks the eve of National Reconciliation Week.
The #NRW2024 theme, Now More Than Ever is a reminder to us all that, no matter what, the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will – and must – continue.
National Reconciliation Week provides all of us an opportunity to celebrate the rich culture of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and to continue to work on building respectful relationships with traditional custodians of the land we work and live on.
We call on all supporters of reconciliation to stand up to defend and uphold the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. To call out racism wherever we encounter it, and to actively reinforce the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across this continent.
A range of Reconciliation Week activities and resources are available via Reconciliation Australia’s website: https://www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/national-reconciliation-week/