The City of Greater Geelong is proud to support NAIDOC Week 2019 (7-14 July), which celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
This year's theme is 'Voice. Treaty. Truth. Let's work together for a shared future', which aims to encourage conversations between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and non-Indigenous people.
As part of NAIDOC Week 2019 celebrations, Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood unveiled an Acknowledgement to Country plaque at City Hall.
The wording on the plaque is inscribed with the following: "Council acknowledges Wadawurrung Traditional Owners of this land and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People who are part of the Greater Geelong community today".
The Wathaurong Glass plaque will create a respectful and welcoming environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in the City of Greater Geelong.
A number of events are being held in Geelong to mark NAIDOC Week 2019, including The City Presents: An Evening with Aunty Eleanor Bourke and Professor Sarah Maddison.
The City of Greater Geelong is committed to achieving equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Council is currently preparing its first Reconciliation Action Plan, a tool to help strengthen relationships and create opportunities.
Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood
NAIDOC Week is always a special time in our region, and there is so much to celebrate and be proud of. I hope this year's theme will further open up dialogue between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people.
Council is working on improving outcomes for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community, with our first Reconciliation Action Plan. This framework will guide the City's strategies and activities with our Aboriginal residents.
Councillor Sarah Mansfield - Chair, An Inclusive and Diverse Community portfolio
NAIDOC Week provides an opportunity to learn about and celebrate our long, rich and diverse local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage and culture.
It also encourages our community to engage in open, truthful dialogue, and reflect on how we can enable self-determination for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
