May 26 is National Sorry Day.
The day recognises the lasting impact of the forcible removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their homes and families, by the Commonwealth Government. As a result of the actions of government, welfare agencies and churches, much of the Stolen Generation lost access to their indigenous identities, heritage, and Country.
On Sorry Day, North Richmond Community Health will be holding a free community BBQ, to acknowledge the significance of the day.
All are welcome to join us at the event, which will include a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony with Wurundjeri Elder Colin Hunter (pictured above). There will also be special guest speakers and traditional dancers.
Friday 26 May, 2017, 12.00pm to 2.00pm: Sorry Day free community BBQ
Location: North Richmond Community Health, 23 Lennox St, Richmond
North Richmond Community Health stands on Wurundjeri Land. We are honoured to have a Woi wurrung name, Wulumperi-kertheba, which translates to ‘staying healthy together’. We were given the name by Wurundjeri Senior Elder Doreen Garvey-Wandin. We are committed to the health, safety and wellbeing of our indigenous communities.
We acknowledge the ongoing affect of government policy on all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We also acknowledge the enduring strength of indigenous people in the face of historic and current-day oppression and disadvantage.
The forcible removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children began in the 1800s and continued until the 1970s. It’s estimated that thousands of children were removed from their families and communities over this time, causing unparalleled damage.
We hope to see you at our Sorry Day event, to pay respects, come together and heal.
If you feel distressed or are experiencing sadness around Sorry Day, you can contact the following organisations to talk to someone.
Lifeline: 131 114
Suicide Callback Service: 1300 659 467
Kids Help Line: 1800 55 1800.
