TODAY marks will mark the sixth anniversary of Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s formal apology to the Stolen Generations.
In his apology Mr Rudd honoured “the Indigenous peoples of this land, the oldest continuing cultures in human history” and reflected on their mistreatment.
“The time has now come for the nation to turn a new page in Australia’s history by righting the wrongs of the past and moving forward with confidence to the future,” he said.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s community and organisational development director Lesley Atkinson said the day was an historic moment for the nation that has allowed Aboriginal communities across Australia to begin their healing journeys.
“The day reminds us all to pause and reflect on an important milestone for the nation and our commitment and path towards a united and reconciled country,” Ms Atkinson said.
In support and recognition of the National Apology in 2008, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council made a declaration and commitment to, the ongoing development of strategies to improve the level of participation of Aboriginal people in the local government area.
In line with this commitment, Ms Atkinson said, the council is seeking comment on its Aboriginal Awareness and Understanding Strategy 2013/14.
The council continues to participate in and support the commemoration of National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week, NAIDOC Week and other cultural activities in conjunction with the local Aboriginal community.
