National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Now More Than Ever #NRW2024
Across the country, reconciliation supporters brought to life the National Reconciliation Week 2024 theme, Now More Than Ever.
From 27 May to 3 June, in schools, communities and workplaces across the nation, supporters of the reconciliation movement came together to recommit to bold action to continue the fight for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s rights, recognition and justice.
Hundreds of in-person and virtual events were held around the country. More than 450 choirs and singing groups raised their voices for reconciliation singing the Warumpi Band classic, Blackfella/Whitefella.
Here’s a snapshot of some of the #VoicesforReconciliation:
After the extraordinary response we received throughout the week, we are now encouraging all Australians to carry this year’s theme with them every day of the year, not just during National Reconciliation Week.
About the artwork
The National Reconciliation Week 2024 design and artwork represent the momentum of the theme Now More Than Ever. The chevron, a universal symbol for pointing the way, signifies advancing as one as we look towards a reconciled future; and the vibrant artwork of Gubbi Gubbi artist Maggie Douglas encourages connecting with one another, understanding and continuing to move forward.
The 2024 theme design incorporating the artwork is by Carbon Creative.
What is National Reconciliation Week?
The dates for NRW remain the same each year; 27 May to 3 June. These dates commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey— the successful 1967 referendum, and the High Court Mabo decision respectively.
Reconciliation must live in the hearts, minds and actions of all Australians as we move forward, creating a nation strengthened by respectful relationships between the wider Australian community, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and in playing our part we collectively build relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.
A brief history
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) started as the Week of Prayer for Reconciliation in 1993 (the International Year of the World’s Indigenous Peoples) and was supported by Australia’s major faith communities.
In 1996, the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation launched Australia’s first National Reconciliation Week.
In 2001, Reconciliation Australia was established to continue to provide national leadership on reconciliation.
In the same year, approximately 300,000 people walked across Sydney Harbour Bridge as part of National Reconciliation Week-and subsequently across bridges in cities and towns-to show their support for reconciliation.
Today, National Reconciliation Week is celebrated in workplaces, schools and early learning services, community organisations and groups, and by individuals Australia-wide.
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