Reconciliation Day events return to Canberra at National Arboretum

After COVID-19 forced the cancellation of usual activities in Glebe Park last year, Reconciliation Day 2021 has a new home.

The Canberra community is invited to spend the public holiday learning the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, with a range of activities scheduled throughout the day.

Events include live music, a yarning circle, Ngunnawal language workshops, bush craft and guided cultural walks through the forest.

Reconciliation Australia's theme for 2021 is: More than a word. Reconciliation takes action.

Co-chair of the ACT Reconciliation Council Chris Bourke said the day provided an opportunity to encourage conversation about the importance of reconciliation.

"We urge Canberrans to come and be part of the events and take the opportunity to develop an understanding of what we can do as a community, and as individuals, to contribute to reconciliation," Mr Bourke said.

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Held for the first time in 2018, Reconciliation Day marks the start of National Reconciliation Week and is held each year on the first Monday on or after May 27, the anniversary of the 1967 referendum.

Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel Stephen-Smith said the arboretum would provide a more COVID-19 safe environment.

"This year's event will be a little different - being hosted at the arboretum, providing a large open space for the community to come together and participate in activities which facilitate reflection, conversation and celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures," Ms Stephen-Smith.

Reconciliation Day event activities include:

For more details on ACT Reconciliation Day 2021 and activities: events.canberra.com.au/reconciliation-day

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