National Reconciliation Week 2023

Moving Beyond Awareness: Reconciliation Requires Action and Accountability

Introduction:

National Reconciliation Week (NRW – 27 May to 3 June) holds significant importance in Australia, providing an opportunity for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. However, it is crucial to recognize that this week of events should not be a mere symbolic gesture, but a catalyst for concrete action and genuine reconciliation throughout the year. Despite the annual celebrations, the recurring failure to meet the Closing the Gap targets over consecutive years demands accountability and a tangible plan for progress. It is time to transcend political theater and prioritize lasting change in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, well-being, education, and social equity.

The spiritual perspective

From a spiritual perspective, the importance of reconciliation resonates deeply in religious texts such as the Quran and the Bible. Both emphasize the principles of forgiveness, compassion, and unity among humanity. The Quran teaches that “The believers are but brothers, so make settlement between your brothers. And fear Allah that you may receive mercy.” 49:10 (سورة الحجرات). Similarly, the Bible urges ‘All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation’. Corinthians 5:18.

The Scholarly Understanding of Reconciliation:

Reconciliation, as understood by scholars such as John Paul Lederach and Trudy Govier, goes beyond superficial gestures and requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Genuine reconciliation involves acknowledging past injustices, promoting healing, restoring relationships, and transforming social structures to address power imbalances. It necessitates uncomfortable conversations, confronting systemic racism, and working toward shared goals of justice and equity.

Reflecting on Historical Milestones:

As we commemorate National Reconciliation Week, we remember pivotal moments in our nation’s history that have shaped the path towards reconciliation. The successful 1967 referendum granting the Australian Government power to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, as well as the landmark Mabo decision in 1992, which recognized their status as Traditional Owners and Custodians of lands, laid the foundation for progress. These milestones remind us of the importance of acknowledging past injustices and charting a more inclusive future.

The Uluru Statement and Indigenous Leadership:

The Uluru Statement represents a historic consensus among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, calling for constitutional change to recognize First Australians through a Voice to Parliament. This recommendation, co-designed and advocated for by Indigenous leadership, plays a vital role in fostering reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It is essential for organizations and individuals to support and uphold the aspirations outlined in the Uluru Statement.

The Five Dimensions of Reconciliation:

Reconciliation encompasses five crucial dimensions: race relations, equality and equity, institutional integrity, unity, and historical acceptance. These dimensions underscore the need for genuine commitment from political, business, and community structures, fostering a society that values and recognizes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and heritage as integral components of our national identity. Achieving reconciliation demands acceptance of past wrongs and their impact on Indigenous communities, as well as the continuous pursuit of justice and equality.

 

Characteristics of Effective Reconciliation:

Effective reconciliation is characterized by several key elements identified by scholars such as Marcia Langton and Tom Calma. These include active participation and involvement of Indigenous communities in decision-making processes, long-term commitment to change at all levels of society, redressing historical injustices through reparations and land rights, and fostering respectful relationships based on mutual understanding and cultural exchange. Genuine reconciliation demands a collective effort to dismantle structures of power and privilege.

Action Beyond Awareness:

While awareness is an essential first step, it alone is not sufficient. True reconciliation requires substantive action that addresses racism in all its forms, including institutional, systemic, and interpersonal manifestations. The statistics concerning incarceration rates, educational disparities, health issues, and suicide rates among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples serve as painful reminders of the urgent need for change. We must move beyond superficial photo opportunities and prioritize meaningful engagement, respecting Indigenous wisdom and capabilities.

Consultation and Cultural Knowledge:

To ensure the effectiveness of policies aimed at improving the lives of Indigenous peoples, consultation with Indigenous communities is paramount. By incorporating Indigenous cultural knowledge and experiences, we can better reflect their priorities and values. Evaluations of government policies should also consider Indigenous notions of social value to foster more culturally sensitive approaches. Canada’s example of collaboration and learning from Indigenous communities offers valuable lessons that Australia should embrace.

Reconciliation at the Society Level:

Reconciliation cannot be confined to individual actions; it must permeate all aspects of society. One avenue for transformative change lies in early childhood education. By embedding reconciliation in the curriculum, we can shape the next generation’s understanding of our shared history, cultures, and achievements. This involves revising history books that perpetuate colonial narratives and reframing the depiction of settlers as heroes, while acknowledging the resilience, wisdom, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Role of Bravery:

Bravery is an essential quality in the pursuit of reconciliation. It requires individuals and communities to step outside their comfort zones, challenge their own biases, and confront the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality. Cultivating the power of reconciliation is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to the strength and resilience of humanity. It can heal wounds, bridge divides, and transform societies, unleashing a profound and enduring force for peace and harmony. True reconciliation demands courage to dismantle structures of power and privilege, address historical narratives, and amplify marginalized voices. Only through collective bravery can we create a society that honors and respects the rights, culture, and sovereignty of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Conclusion – Embracing a Transformative Journey:

As we engage in National Reconciliation Week, let us embrace the call for transformative change. Drawing on spiritual perspective we learn that the holy texts emphasize the role of God in reconciling humanity to Himself through Christ and assign believers the ministry of reconciliation, encouraging them to participate actively in fostering reconciliation and healing in their relationships and communities.

Drawing on scholarly insights, we understand that reconciliation is a multidimensional process requiring bravery, societal engagement, and educational reforms. It demands a collective commitment to address systemic injustices, challenge historical narratives, and create spaces for truth-telling and healing. By cultivating genuine reconciliation, we can pave the way for a future where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are truly recognized, valued, and empowered within a just and equitable Australia. Let us be brave, challenge our biases, and work together to create a society that upholds justice, equity, and respect for all.

Final Words – A Call to Action:

As we celebrate National Reconciliation Week, we must not lose sight of the pressing issues that demand our attention. It is time for Australians to go beyond symbolic gestures and work collectively to address the systemic injustices faced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Reconciliation requires action, accountability, and a genuine commitment to change. Let us heed the urgent call for justice, equality, and cultural understanding. Let us discover the power of unity, respect, and healing, weaving together the threads of our diverse cultures and traditions to create a tapestry of peace that transcends time and brings harmony to our country.

Together, we can create a better and more just Australia for all.