Reconciliation is an everyday practice

We’ve helped our partners deliver some incredible NRW celebrations over the years. Last year, we proudly developed the theme and branding for NRW with Reconciliation Australia – ‘Bridging Now to Next’. We’re excited to roll out a bunch of great projects that honour this year’s theme: ‘All In’.

Reconciliation really is an all in effort. Like Invasion Day and NAIDOC Week, NRW is a time when many allies show up to support First Nations Community. We love to see the momentum that these significant dates bring, but support can’t stop when it finishes trending.

Reconciliation efforts need to continue every day, all year round. Systemic and structural change comes from long-term, ongoing action.

So here are some things you can do to be an active ally – this NRW, and beyond:

Do your research

Start by learning whose Country you’re on. The AIATSIS Map of Indigenous Australia is a great first step. Keep digging into Australia’s history: invasion, the Stolen Generations, and the ongoing impacts of colonisation. Clothing the Gaps has collated a brilliant range of resources on the Stolen Generations here. See also the incredible series The Australian Wars by acclaimed director Rachel Perkins.

Use your platform

Truth-telling is central to reconciliation. Use your platform to amplify First Nations issues and voices. Get behind existing campaigns – like the Our Kids Belong With Family campaign linked above. Reconciliation Australia also lists a range of active campaigns to get behind here.

Call out racism when you see it

Silence is complicity. When you witness racism – at work, online, or out in the world – calling it out is one of the most powerful acts of allyship. It signals that discrimination is not acceptable and creates safer spaces for First Nations people every day. The Australian Human Rights Commission provides a complaints process that you can access confidentiality.

Support First Nations businesses

Put your money where your mouth is. We’re proud to work with so many amazing First Nations businesses, like Clothing the Gaps, Kinya Lerrk, Blak Brews, and Indigiprint. Wearing your values with Clothing the Gaps grows the First Nations economy and shows your allyship in the physical world at the same time.

Develop a Reconciliation Action Plan

A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is a great way to commit your organisation to action. But a RAP only works if your team meets your commitments. We can help you design and launch your RAP, wherever you are on your journey – get in touch. For further information about the RAP process, contact Reconciliation Australia.

Join your local reconciliation network

Your local reconciliation network is the best way to stay connected, informed, and active all year round, not just during NRW. Reconciliation Australia has put together a full list of networks across the country. Find yours here.