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National Reconciliation Week
29 May 2024
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
This week from 27 May to 3 June is National Reconciliation Week - a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The 2024 theme, Now More Than Ever, is a reminder to all of us that the fight for justice and the rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will —and must —continue.
As a College, we recognise the importance of reconciliation in Australia and acknowledge the historical wrongs experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
National Sorry Day
National Sorry Day took place on 26 May. It is a day for Australians to acknowledge the grief, trauma and loss suffered by the Stolen Generations and reflect on how we can all play a part in the healing process for our people and nation.
RANZCP actions
The College values the culture, history and the traditions that are important components of the identity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and reconciliation led by the College’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Committee with a number of ongoing initiatives:
The development and commitment to our new Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan 2024– 2026 launched at Congress last week.
Recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Australian Constitution (position statement 68, 2023).
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health workers (position statement 50, 2016).
Acknowledging the Stolen Generations (position statement 42, 2020).
Collaboration and engagement with partner organisations, such as the Australian Indigenous Doctors Association aiming for equitable health and life outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Supporting psychiatry trainees who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander through the STP support projects and through offering financial support and peer support through the appointment of our new Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health Liaison Officer, Chanelle Martin (chanelle.martin@ranzcp.org).
There are many events being run across the country and we encourage everyone to get involved:
New South Wales
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
Western Australia
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