Today we observe National Sorry Day, remembering and acknowledging the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now refer to as ‘The Stolen Generation”.  We reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and together as a nation.

It is now 23 years after the “Bringing them Home” report was tabled in Parliament, the result of the Government inquiry into past policies, but sadly (and disgracefully)  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are still 10 times more likely than non-indigenous children to be removed from their families.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many planned events to acknowledge this day have had to be cancelled – although there are some online events that are available: Sorry Day Online Event

Tomorrow marks the start of National Reconciliation Week, a time for all Australians to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The Team at LEAD remains committed to strengthening respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and whilst we cant come together physically at the moment, we will be joining others around the country as we pause, reflect and support the ongoing movement towards a just, equitable and reconciled Australia.