Reconciliation Day (Monday, 2 June) is a chance to reflect on our shared history and a pathway forward together. Photo: ACT Government.
Canberrans are invited to take part in the spirit of truth telling, truth listening, respect and unity at Commonwealth Park this Reconciliation Day (Monday, 2 June).
The event includes free activities, cultural performances and interactive experiences, along with live music, storytelling, workshops and community conversations.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Minister Suzanne Orr said it was a chance to celebrate the strength and culture of First Nations peoples.
“This year’s theme, Bridging Now to Next, reminds us that reconciliation is a journey we take together, grounded in truth, guided by respect, and driven by hope,” she said.
The event begins with a free community breakfast from 8:30 am followed by a Smoking Ceremony conducted by Justin Reid and Welcome to Country with Uncle Fred Monaghan at 10 am.
Headliner and Gomeroi artist Kobie Dee will mentor young performers in a high school vocal competition.
Australian Poetry Slam Artist of the Year, Gomeroi man Rob Waters, will share his poetry and stories of Aboriginal survival and celebration of culture.
Respected voices such as Karen Mundine, Katrina Fanning, Janet Hunt, Bridget Cama and Karl Briscoe will take part in panel discussions exploring the path forward for reconciliation.
ACT Reconciliation Council co-chair Selina Walker said these provided opportunities for everyone to reflect on who we are, where we’ve come from and where we need to go.
“Reconciliation between non-Indigenous and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples is everybody’s responsibility. Reconciliation Week provides opportunities to have those awkward but necessary discussions, where true learning and understanding, which is what reconciliation is really about, can take place,” she said.
“It’s not an occasion to be celebrated, it’s a human rights movement. And we need people to join in that movement for the future of this country.
“We are stronger together, side by side.”
Enjoy performances from a range of popular musical artists, including Meteor Infant, Sistas in Song, Johnny Huckle, Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga, and the Djaarmby Band.
Cultural workshops include language sessions, basket weaving, bead making, and native plant and bush tucker activities.
Or visit interactive stalls hosted by the National Zoo and Aquarium, along with face painting, storytelling and boomerang painting for the kids.
The community has been invited to bring along a picnic rug or chair to enjoy the green space and sample from the wide variety of food stalls on the day.
Public transport will be free all day, operating on a public holiday timetable.
Free direct shuttle buses will run continuously from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm between the City Interchange (Platform 3) and the event site at Commonwealth Park (near the Visitor Information Centre).
