Released 05/07/2021
Canberrans are celebrating and reflecting on the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people this NAIDOC Week.
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel Stephen-Smith this morning participated in the raising of the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander, ACT and Australian Flags outside the Legislative Assembly to officially mark the week.
“NAIDOC Week is an opportunity to celebrate and reflect upon the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Canberra and across our nation,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
“This year’s NAIDOC theme ‘Heal Country’ reflects the cultural and spiritual importance of Country for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the need to regenerate and protect Country. For First Nations people, Country means more than the mountains, plains and rivers – it includes all living things and embraces seasons, stories and spirits.
“By embracing First Nations cultural knowledge and understanding of Country as part of Australia's national heritage we can build a better future together.
“I encourage Canberrans to attend the range of NAIDOC events on offer across the ACT such as the Community Celebration in Woden Town Square on Tuesday, which will feature live music, stalls and art workshops.
“Voting in the ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body elections is also currently open, which means this year’s NAIDOC week is also a time for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Canberrans to come together to vote for candidates who will best advocate for their rights, goals and aspirations and provide a voice for the community to the ACT Government.”
Polling places for the Elections are open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm in the Belconnen, Civic, Gungahlin, Tuggeranong, and Woden town centres this week.
To learn more about the ATSIEB election please visit Elections ACT: www.elections.act.gov.au/elections_and_voting/atsieb_elections/2021-atsieb-election
Videos of the ATSIEB candidate’s three-minute statements from a Meet the Candidates forum are available here: https://bit.ly/OATSIA-YouTube
NAIDOC events are available at: www.naidoc.org.au/get-involved/naidoc-week-events
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases