On 13th February 2019, I facilitated a meeting for all LEAD staff, including an Aboriginal worker, to discuss a proposed restructure of the organisation. This day, inadvertently, was the anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations (National Apology Day), which I had not realised. Subsequent individual meetings with LEAD staff later that day resulted in some staff opting to take voluntary redundancy.

Since that time I have received feedback that the voluntary redundancy of an Aboriginal worker of this important day was a culturally inappropriate action.

I would like to sincerely and whole heartedly apologise for not being aware that this meeting coincided with the National Apology Day and extend my remorse to any Aboriginal worker and/or community member that was offended by this very unintentional action. I acknowledge the importance of this day, not only to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but to all Australians, as we recognise the impact of the forced removal of children from their families and communities by successive colonial and Australian governments.

 

22/02/2022

 

Artwork by © Amy Allerton, Contemporary Aboriginal Artist of the Gamilaroi, Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung Nations.

REPRODUCED WITH PERMISSION AND GRATITUDE.