Published on Wednesday, 26 May 2021 at 10:19:15 AM
The Town of Port Hedland recognises National Sorry Day (the Day), a day of remembrance and commemoration held annually to highlight the impact of past Federal and State policies of forced removal on the Stolen Generations, their families, their communities and their culture.
The first Day was held in 1998, following the Bringing them Home Report being tabled in Federal Parliament in 1997. This Report detailed the hardships of forced removal and included a list of recommendations for what government should do to move towards reconciliation.
One of those recommendations was for the government to issue a formal apology, delivered by former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd on 13 February 2008.
The Day presents Australia with the opportunity to raise awareness, reflect and take action regarding the history and continued impact of forced removal.
The Day precedes National Reconciliation Week, held from 27 May to 3 June.
Mayor Peter Carter said the Day was an important point of reflection on the national calendar.
“The Town of Port Hedland would like to acknowledge the Kariyarra, Ngarla and Nyamal people as the Traditional Custodians of the Town of Port Hedland lands. We recognise their strength and resilience and pay our respects to their Elders past and present.
“National Sorry Day provides our community with the opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact of the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families, a result of past State and Federal policies.
“Some of the ways we can observe National Sorry Day include learning the stories of the Stolen Generations, celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievements and thinking about the ways we can work towards reconciliation in our local communities."
Click here for more information.
For media information:
Laura Hawes
Manager Corporate Affairs
(08) 9158 9365 | lhawes@porthedland.wa.gov.au
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