Community organisations turned out on Thursday 13 February 2014 to acknowledge National Apology Day in Ceduna.
The event marked the sixth anniversary of the National Apology to Aboriginal people, and recognised Australia’s Stolen Generation. The National Apology Day event was held in the Memorial Hall from 10am until 1pm, encouraging all people to come together and share the steps towards healing those of the stolen generation, their families and the communities of those affected.
The event was organised by Ceduna / Koonibba Aboriginal Health Service Inc. (CKAHS) in collaboration with the Indigenous Coordination Centre (ICC) and many other stakeholders who attended with information stalls to showcase programs and services.
Sites were set up by the Save the Children, Red Cross, Ceduna District Health Service, Centacare, Eyre Futures, Crossways Lutheran School, Ceduna / Koonibba Aboriginal Health, Drug and Alcohol Services SA (DASSA), Ceduna Youth Hub, Tjutjuna (Ceduna) Aboriginal Arts and Culture Centre and Country Arts SA.
Students from the Ceduna Area School and Crossways Lutheran School attended along with many community members.
A free BBQ lunch and water was provided and activities were available for children. A screening of old photos from Ceduna community and surrounding areas was projected throughout the day to commemorate the region’s history.
A viewing of the apology was available at the Memorial Hall. The Tjutjuna (Ceduna) Aboriginal Arts and Culture Centre provided a canvas by local artist Chris Ackland for those who attended to write a small message recognising the stolen generation.
The Apology to Australia’s Indigenous Peoples was delivered by then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on February 13, 2008, and acknowledged in particular the Stolen Generations.
For more information on National Apology Day click here
For more information on the National Apology Day event in Ceduna please contact Melissa Miller at CKAHS on 8626 2600.
To contact Mandy Brown, Aborignal Arts and Cultural Engagment Officer, Country Arts SA click here
Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and to safeguard, share and celebrate First Nations’ living cultures.