During NAIDOC Week 2021 (4-11 July), Cairns will celebrate the world's two oldest living cultures with lights, storytelling, community events and more.
NAIDOC Week is an opportunity to acknowledge the lived experiences, centuries of resilience and ongoing contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Minister for Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford, said all around the country, NAIDOC Week celebrations are being held to recognise the vast and important contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians.
"Queensland is home to the nation's second largest population of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Mr Crawford said.
"All Queenslanders are invited to join this national celebration of the continued histories, traditions, diverse cultures and ongoing achievements of Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"This year, the NAIDOC Week theme – Heal Country! – invites all Australians to embrace First Nation's cultural knowledge and understanding of Country as part of Australia's national heritage," said Mr Crawford.
Cynthia Lui, who will spoke at the signature event at Fogarty Park in Cairns (Friday 9 July) , said the 2021 theme was about the culture and values of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples being respected.
"Country that is more than a place—it is inherent to our identity as First Nations peoples.
"Heal Country! is about the need for historical, political and administrative landscapes to adapt, empower and celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, nations and heritage.
Iconic local landmark Munro Martin Parklands, will be lit up in the colours of the Aboriginal flag and Torres Strait Islander flag to celebrate NAIDOC Week 2021.
People attending events are reminded to follow the current COVID guidance, maintain good hygiene, keep social distancing and stay home if you are feeling sick, particularly to keep Elders and communities healthy.
Visit www.datsip.qld.gov.au/naidoc or https://www.naidoc.org.au/
