The fourth Illawarra Reconciliation & Truth Telling Conference will feature one of Australia's most compelling voices, with internationally renowned journalist, author and speaker Stan Grant to deliver a keynote address.
A proud Wiradjuri, Kamilaroi and Dharawal man, Grant is a three-time Walkley award winner as well as being recognised with a wide range of other national and international journalism honours. He is an acclaimed author and academic, and one of Australia's foremost philosophical thinkers and speakers.
Grant will be among a host of keynote speakers at the two-day conference at Kembla Grange that provides guidance for education providers to develop deeper understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and develop practical policies to strengthen relationships between Aboriginal people and the broader community.
"To have someone like Stan Grant, one of the country's most passionate and compelling voices for Reconciliation, be part of this year's conference is an invaluable opportunity, and one we're grateful to be able to facilitate," Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said.
Wollongong City Council is collaborating with a host of partner agencies to support staff in building cultural awareness and competence within their organisation.
In understanding the importance of cultural safety for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people accessing their services, organisations can begin developing their own practical Reconciliation Action Plan to build stronger connections with Aboriginal communities.
It aligns with the priorities of Council's own Reconciliation Action Plan, which outlines a responsibility to strengthen relationships with partnered organisations and work to improve the experiences of local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their communities.
"Our Reconciliation Action Plan was a collaborative process developed through extensive positive engagement with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities," Wollongong Council General Manager Greg Doyle said.
"It's important to strengthen those existing relationships through our RAP delivery but also provide opportunities for other organisations and the broader community to develop these valuable relationships in a way that deepens understanding of Aboriginal cultures and histories.
"There are many organisations in our community on their own Reconciliation journey, and the Reconciliation and Truth Telling Conference provides the guidance and support to put their goals into action."
Stan Grant will be among a host of speakers, panel members and local Elders who will share their stories across the two-day conference that will also include facilitated group discussions, Yarning Circles and cultural dance from local school students.
