National Reconciliation Week
Chris COUZENS (Geelong) (10:37): This week is reconciliation week, and the theme is ‘Bridging now to next’. Reconciliation week is an opportunity for all of us to learn our shared histories, cultures and achievements and to look at how we can contribute to reconciliation with First Peoples. It is about understanding and a commitment to building a more just and respectful future. I want to acknowledge and thank the Geelong One Fire Reconciliation Group, who held their annual Rec in the Park event on Sunday, attracting hundreds of people. Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles gave a powerful welcome to country that included speaking up about the harm and trauma caused to First Peoples by the hateful racist comments, particularly on social media, directed at First Peoples about them and their culture. Corrina’s message is a reminder to all of us to stand up against racist behaviour, to call it out and to support First Peoples. We saw the theme ‘Bridging now to next’ in action watching the children that day, both young and older. These young people are the future leaders who will help to bring that bridge.