National Reconciliation Week: Be a Voice for Generations

“National Sorry Day is time for us to recall the policies and actions that have contributed to the significant and ongoing trauma experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”

These are the sentiments of Melissa Cawley, Program Support Officer in SESLHD’s Aboriginal Health Unit.

“It is also a time for us to reflect on our current practices and workplace culture, and an opportunity to engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander colleagues to celebrate our shared journey towards meaningful reconciliation,” Melissa said.

A large part of this shared journey is truth telling which is why on Thursday 25 May Prince of Wales Hospital hosted Elders from Kinchela Boys Home Aboriginal Corporation.

During the moving event, staff heard from Survivors of the Stolen Generations who recalled their experiences, and the ongoing impact these experiences have in their lives today.

SESLHD Chief Executive Tobi Wilson said: “As a District, working towards Reconciliation means addressing racism and enhancing cultural safety as a priority, reducing barriers to accessing healthcare services, and walking beside our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers and colleagues on a journey to a better tomorrow.”

The theme for National Reconciliation Week – 27 May to 3 June 2023 – is Be a Voice for Generations. The theme encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in tangible ways in our everyday lives – where we live, work and socialise.

For the work of generations past, and the benefit of generations future, act today for a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all.