Reconciliation in the spotlight

Horsham Rural City Council has launched its Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan, RAP, as part of the official launch of National Reconciliation Week.

Mayor Mark Radford hosted a morning tea at Horsham Regional Art Gallery as part of the launch.

“Our Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan affirms the council’s commitment to being a community where Aboriginal people are valued and respected,” he said.

“This document has been developed by listening and engaging with our local Aboriginal people, residents, service providers, local schools, council staff and other stakeholders throughout 2018. The RAP has been endorsed by Reconciliation Australia.

“Key stakeholders will work closely with the council to implement and monitor the actions taken over the next two years.

“The RAP will also be reported on annually in Council’s Annual Report.”

Cr Radford encouraged all Wimmera people to be involved in National Reconciliation Week

events, occurring across the municipality until Monday.

He said this year’s theme was ‘grounded in truth’, which aimed to generate discussion about Australia’s colonial history.

“The week provides an opportunity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader community to strengthen their relationships by continuing to heal historical wounds,” Cr Radford said.

“Truth telling is an important step in moving forward with a unified future, based on understanding and respect.”

Activities have already included a morning tea celebration at Skillinvest and an artwork display at Wimmera Health Care Group.

Federation University will host a Film Festival today and Wimmera Catchment Management Authority and Gwmwater will host another morning tea at 24 Darlot Street tomorrow.

National Reconciliation Week is designed to celebrate and build on the respectful relationships shared by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and other Australians.