As a peak body representing the early childhood education and care sector in Victoria, we are proud to join the nation in celebrating National Reconciliation Week. This significant week, held from May 27 to June 3, is 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.
Understanding the importance of reconciliation
Reconciliation is about building respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. It involves recognizing the deep historical and ongoing impacts of colonization and committing to making amends through understanding, respect, and action. For us in the early childhood sector, this commitment is crucial as we play a pivotal role in shaping the hearts and minds of future generations.
Our role in early childhood education and care
Early childhood educators have a unique opportunity to foster a sense of belonging and respect for all cultures in young children. By incorporating reconciliation principles into our services and programs, we can help children develop a strong sense of identity and appreciation for First Nations cultures. This week provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our practices, enhance our understanding, and take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.
How can we participate?
Incorporate indigenous perspectives
Integrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and languages into your curriculum. Use resources and stories that reflect the rich diversity of these cultures.
Professional Development
Integrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and languages into your curriculum. Use resources and stories that reflect the rich diversity of these cultures.
Community Engagement
Build relationships with local First Nations communities. Invite Elders and community members to share their stories and cultural practices with the children.
Reflect and Act
Use National Reconciliation Week as a time for critical reflection on your service’s practices and policies. Find an event to attend to support NRW, or go one step further and develop and implement a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) to guide your ongoing commitment to reconciliation.
This commissioned artwork was created during the development of the ACA Victoria Reconciliation Action Plan.
About the Artwork
Bunurong Goyeep (Bunurong Features)
The unique Kaptify Art style is based on Cultural Ecology which is an integration of the Natural and Cultural Values of Bunurong Country. For this art piece we have considered our Bird Ecology. Bunurong Feathers – the art piece supplied is a repurposed frame with Bunurong Feathers being the prominent theme. The colour palette represents the colours of Bunurong Country and the colours of our Bird Ecology. We have applied patterns in colour combinations and contrasts that are derived from Bunurong Country. The Bird Feathers are symbolic and spiritually connected to Bunurong Cultural Practice. The Bird Feathers have been collected from places across the Bunurong Cultural Landscape.
Adam Magennis, Bunurong Artist
