The Indigenous Veterans Commemoration Service is part of National Reconciliation Week, 27 May – June 3. The reconciliation theme for 2023 is Be a voice for Generations. By actively listening to the voices and aspirations of First Nations peoples, we can use our voices and actions to drive change within our educational communities.
In a symbolic event, the 2023 Indigenous Veterans Commemoration Service took place in Sydney today, paying tribute to the dedication of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander veterans. The commemoration service drew together a diverse array of participants, featuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, school students, and both current serving and veteran members of the Australian Defence Force merging military customs with Indigenous ceremonial displays including a traditional smoking ceremony. In addition, the dance group Nggayi (meaning belonging to in Darkinjung language) from St Peter’s and St Joseph’s Catholic Schools Broken Bay performed the ‘Welcome Dance’ as part of the service.
This gathering serves to honour our Indigenous veterans. It signifies a significant step toward fostering understanding, respect, and unity among all Australians, bridging the gap between the past and a collective future built on respect and understanding.
