NAIDOC Week 2017 begins in just four days, and all Australians are invited to celebrate this year’s theme, Our Languages Matter, at events and activities nation-wide.
Held annually, 2-9 July, NAIDOC Week promotes the histories, cultures and achievements of Australia’s First Peoples, and is an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians to celebrate together.
‘Our Languages Matter’ marks the unique and essential role that Indigenous languages play in cultural identity, connection between people, and connection to lands and waters.
They are key to passing on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, spiritualties and rites, through story and song.
“Language matters to us as it provides a central connection to our cultures, stories, ceremonies and connection to land,” stated Reconciliation Australia CEO Justin Mohamed on the importance of language.
“It provides an important lifeline to our ancient past, and in doing so, provides a source of strength and inspiration for our present and future generations, keeping our people strong.”
“This NAIDOC week, I encourage all Australians to learn more about the Indigenous languages spoken in their community,” he said.
Read Five Fast Facts about NAIDOC Week.
For more information on NAIDOC Week, visit naidoc.org.au
