NAIDOC at Assetlink
Assetlink proudly supports NAIDOC Week, a special time to recognise and celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Starting on the first Sunday in July every year, this year's theme – ‘Voice. Treaty. Truth: Let’s work together for a shared future’ – acknowledges that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ desire to have an enhanced role in decision-making in Australia’s democracy. ‘Voice, Treaty, Truth’ are the three key elements to the reforms set out in the Uluru Statement from the Heart, representing the unified position of the First Nations Australians.
At Assetlink, we believe coming together with our communities is the first important step to work together for a shared future. Bringing this year’s theme to life, we joined our teams and our community throughout the week to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our First Peoples. The Indigenous voice is over 65000 years old - languages that have passed down know-how, skills and innovations that connect us to country and our First Peoples; and it’s important to protect, uphold and share this unique voice and truth with our generation and those to follow.
This year, Assetlink celebrated NAIDOC week with a movie night on 5th July in our NSW Support Office in the lead up to the week, followed by a visit to ‘NAIDOC at NCIE’ event with our team, family and friends on 12th July.
Movie Night, Screening ‘Gurrumul’, a film about Indigenous Australian musician, Dr G Yunupingu
As one of Australia’s most celebrated and acclaimed voices, Dr G Yunupingu found purpose and meaning through songs and music inspired by his community and country. This film, through his voice and experiences, provides a powerful insight into the world of our First Peoples, their vibrant culture and history, and the importance to preserve, honour and share it with our future generations.
Celebrating 10 years of NAIDOC Week at NCIE
Organised by a committee of community organisations and held at the National Centre of Indigenous Excellence (NCIE), the event kicked off with a Welcome to Country by Uncle Charles (Chicka) Madden, a leading elder from Gadigal country; followed by a Smoking Ceremony by Uncle Max; and dances from Tribal Warrior Aboriginal Corporation and Kiris An Taran, Torres Strait Island Dance Troupe. ‘NAIDOC at NCIE’ was a festival that embraced what NAIDOC is all about - a celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, communities and music with food, stalls, and fun activities for children. We each even had an opportunity to contribute a few brush strokes to the indigenous mural painting at the NCIE carpark.
Observing NAIDOC Week this year has been incredibly insightful and engaging. We encourage everyone to explore various events across the country, scheduled to take place throughout the month.
By taking part and engaging with our communities, we can know more about and support our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community first-hand. Only then can we truly work together for a shared future and bring this year's theme to life, keep it alive throughout the year, on to NAIDOC Week next year.