National Sorry Day is taking place on Tuesday 26 May from 10.30am to 2.30pm at the Stolen Generation Memorial and Healing Garden, Stebonheath Park, Andrews Farm.
This is the first event of its kind in the northern metropolitan area since the apology was first made to the Stolen Generation in 2008 by the former Prime Minister, the Hon. Kevin Rudd.
“It is significant that this event is being held at the Stolen Generation Memorial and Healing Garden which is a place of remembrance, reflection and respect towards Aboriginal people and their families and communities,” Judith Cross, CEO, Relationships Australia South Australia said.
Relationships Australia South Australia has planned a day of honouring the Aboriginal Community and celebrating a positive move towards the future.
“We have contributed a significant amount of resources to the organisation of this day because we want to acknowledge the past injustices that took place against the Stolen Generation and in small way be part of the healing,” Ms Cross said.
The event at the Memorial and Healing Garden will start with a Welcome to Country by a local Kaurna woman, who will be assisted by a local sign language specialist.
After the Welcome to Country, there will be a short walk led by elders, local community organisations and members with children playing clapping sticks towards the memorial. A ceremonial tree planting will take place at which people are invited to lay a flower at the garden.
Leaders from the community will talk about the importance of the National Sorry Day and information about the Memorial and Healing Garden.
This will be followed by music,entertainment and a free community BBQ that will include vegetarian options.
People are invited to sign the pledge book and contribute to a community art canvas project sponsored by Northern Domestic Violence Service.
Activities for everyone will be part of the day including rock painting, sand art drawing, a Together 4 Kids art group and Kaurna language workshops.
Staff and representatives from a variety of organisations such as Relationships Australia South Australia (Royal Commission Support Services, Post Care Support Services from Elm Place), Nunkuwarrin Yunti, Reconciliation SA, Northern Domestic Violence, and the Stolen Generation Alliance will be available for support and to talk with people.
Supporting partners for this event are:
Reconciliation South Australia Inc.
Stolen Generations Alliance
Connecting Home Victoria
City of Playford
Nunkunwarrin Yunti of South Australia Inc.
Anangu Ngangkari Tjutaku Aboriginal Corporation (ANTAC)
Northern Domestic Violence Service
Key details for National Sorry Day
Date: 26 May 2015
Time: 10.30am – 2.30pm
Location: Stolen Generation Memorial and Healing Garden, Stebonheath Park on Davoren Road, Andrews Farm
Bus pickups available by calling 8255 3323. There is limited availability, bookings are essential.
Download the flyer for more information
