Jun

Heal Country

Traditionally First Nations people see Country as their mother – who takes care of them by producing places for shelter, food, water and warmth – all of which sustains them.

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held around Australia every year to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Usually held in the first week (a Sunday to Sunday) of July, this year we will be celebrating NAIDOC week from 4 July – 11 July. As a community all Australia is encouraged to likewise celebrate these contributions, recognising that God dwells amongst his people, regardless of culture. There is much to be learned about First Nations history, language, culture and spirituality in this space,

Historically held on just one day it was known as ‘National Aboriginal Day’. This year’s theme is ‘Heal Country, heal our nation’.

It is a call for stronger measures to help all Australians understand that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a unique way of viewing the land.

They see it as their mother – who takes care of them by producing places for shelter, food, water and warmth – all of which sustains them.

Another important thing to consider is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a responsibility to look after sacred sites and the land. They do not see land as a commodity to be bought and sold, but to be harvested, cared for and enjoyed. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples don’t see themselves as owning the land but, instead, the land owns them.

NAIDOC Week 2021 invites all Australians to embrace the true meaning of Country – a belief that dates back thousands of generations.