RMIT is sponsoring the national Walk for Truth, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander-led initiative bringing communities together to support truth-telling and healing across Australia.
The walk begins on Sunday 19 April at the steps of the Victorian Parliament and will travel more than 800 kilometres to Canberra, concluding at Federal Parliament during National Reconciliation Week in May.
Led by Kerrupmara Gunditjmara man and former Commissioner of the Yoorrook Justice Commission Travis Lovett, the walk encourages communities to engage in truth-telling about Australia's shared history and the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The national walk builds on Victoria's Walk for Truth held last year, which raised awareness of truth-telling as part of the Treaty process between the State and First Peoples.
RMIT is sponsoring the walk in line with its commitment to Responsible Practice. Through this approach, staff and students are encouraged to listen, learn and build respectful relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Responsible Practice also supports the broader transformations needed to create a more equitable society.
RMIT is encouraging staff and students to support the walk and take part in truth-telling conversations across the community.
RMIT Pro Vice-Chancellor Indigenous Education, Research and Engagement, Professor Gary Thomas said truth-telling is an important part of acknowledging Australia's shared history and strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the broader Australian community.
"It's about listening to the experiences and histories that have too often been left out of our national story and recognising that healing begins with honesty," Professor Thomas said.
"Creating more equitable societies requires collaboration between communities, institutions, and individuals. Community-led initiatives like the Walk for Truth play an important role in bringing people together and supporting truth-telling across the country."
RMIT Vice-Chancellor Professor Alec Cameron said universities have an important role in helping communities engage with difficult histories and building a more informed future.
"The Walk for Truth is an opportunity for Australians to reflect on our shared history and listen to the experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," Professor Cameron said.
"At RMIT, we know that sharing and listening is one of the most powerful ways to deepen understanding and connection within our community, and an important step towards meaningful change." Professor Cameron said,
How to take part
There are several ways to support the Walk for Truth, including joining the walk or signing an open letter to the Prime Minister.
On Day 1 (Sunday 19 April), people can join the walk from 8.30am at the Victorian Parliament, travelling to Dights Falls Park. In the afternoon, the walk will continue to Victoria Park in Abbotsford.
