National Reconciliation Week is recognised nationally each year, commencing 27 May through to 3 June. These dates mark the anniversary of two significant historical milestones for the journey to Reconciliation; The 1967 Referendum, which occurred on the 27 May 1967, and the High Court Mabo decision, which was handed down on 3 June 1992.
National Reconciliation Week aims to build respectful and positive relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians. The theme for National Reconciliation Week in 2021 is ‘More than a word. Reconciliation takes action.’
In order for reconciliation to be successful, it requires strong, trusting relationships through truth-telling, acknowledging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples rights and addressing systemic racism and inequalities.
Monash Health acknowledges all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees, patients, local Elders and communities and is striving for reconciliation through a number of different initiatives set out in its Reconciliation Action Plan, including:
- Cultural Awareness training package
- Aboriginal Employment Strategy
- A procurement strategy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander businesses
- Installation of Aboriginal artwork and welcoming plaques
- Yarning Circle for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff to connect
In recognition of National Reconciliation Week, Monash Health has organised a number of events outlined below:
Welcome to Country Thursday 27 May 11am
A Welcome to Country is a traditional Aboriginal protocol, in which guests and neighbours are formally welcomed to Country, to pay respect to Aboriginal people and their connection to Country.
The Welcome to Country will be performed by Wurundjeri Elder, Aunty Georgina Nicholson and will be delivered by WebEx.
Wayapa Friday 28 May 12pm
Wayapa is an internationally accredited Indigenous wellbeing modality consisting of a narrative movement and meditation practice connecting with 14 elements in nature and founded in Aboriginal wisdom in caring for and connecting to country.
Thaedra Frangos is an accredited Wayapa Wuurrk® earth mindfulness facilitator, biodynamic craniosacral therapist and healer, freelance movement artist and dancer. Thaedra lives on Wadawurrung country and is a proud Wemba Wemba (Gourrmjanyuk) and Dhudhuroa (Theddora Mittung) woman with Greek lineage. Join Thaedra in this virtual Wayapa.
Performance by Kinja Tuesday 1 June 12:30pm
Kinja are following up their performance at Monash Children’s Hospital for National Reconciliation Week in 2019, with a virtual Celtic-Indigenous show. Kinja is made up of Ron Murray and Sarah James. Watch Kinja perform on Tuesday.
Employee Forum Tuesday 1 June 2pm
This Employee Forum will feature Kenton Winsley who was recently appointed as Director of Aboriginal Health. For the last 10 years Kenton has worked for the Department of Health in the Northern Territory in several senior leadership roles. Kenton is a Registered Aboriginal Health Practitioner, a Registered Paramedic and a Registered Nurse. Join our Employee Forum to hear from Kenton.
Yarning Circle Thursday 3 June 4pm
The Yarning Circle is an initiative for Monash Health’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employees to connect in a culturally safe place. If you identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and would like to join, please email dan.mason@monashhealth.org.
Approved by Julia Oxley.