A Sea of Hands for Reconciliation Week

A Sea of Hands spread across the front lawn of the College was a colourful way for the St Joseph’s community to reflect on the history and meaning of the Reconciliation process for all Australians.

Reconciliation Week marks the anniversaries of two significant events in Australia’s history: the 1967 referendum which finally acknowledged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australian citizens; and the 1992 landmark decision by the High Court of Australia in the Mabo case, which determined that Indigenous peoples should be treated equally before the law with regard to their rights over land, rejecting the myth of terra nullius (that the land had not belonged to anyone prior to European settlement).

The theme of Reconciliation Week for 2009 was ‘See the person, not the stereotype’, and a Headmaster’s Assembly was dedicated to encouraging the everyone in the Joeys community to reflect on what Reconciliation means in their lives. “Surely the theme of Reconciliation Week provides food for thought for all of us in respect to many issues of ignorance and intolerance that still confront Australian society,” said Director of Mission, Helen Smith.

During the Headmaster’s Assembly, the College community was entertained by young Indigenous artist Ryka Ali and his dance troupe, and a number of boys were invited on stage to try some of the traditional moves with the dancers.

Mrs Smith said Reconciliation Week is a time for the College community to think about what they can do to promote positive relationships and unity amongst all Australians. “It is our great hope that all members of the Joeys family will contribute in their own way to the message of the Sea of Hands, its call for recognition of past transgressions and a path where all Australians walk together into a harmonious future.”