Lakes Entrance Secondary College celebrated National Aborigines and Islanders Day of Observance Committee week with a school assembly, ceremonies and activities.
Before the 1920s, Aboriginal rights groups boycotted Australia Day in protest against the status and treatment of Indigenous Australians. The Australian Aborigines Progressive Association was formed.
On Australia Day, 1938, protestors marched through the streets of Sydney and it became known as the Day of Mourning, then becoming an annual event known as Aborigines Day on the Sunday before Australia Day. In 1955 Aborigines Day was shifted to the first Sunday in July after it was decided the day should become not simply a protest day but also a celebration of Aboriginal culture.
The next year major Aboriginal organisations, state and federal governments, all supported the formation of the National Aborigines Day Observance Committee (NADOC). At the same time, the second Sunday in July became a day of remembrance for Aboriginal people and their heritage.
In 1975 it was decided the event should cover a week, from the first to second Sunday in July. NADOC was expanded to recognise Torres Strait Islander people and culture, it became known as the National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee (NAIDOC).
This year’s theme ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ honours the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture, with fire a symbol of connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“It’s a theme that reminds us all of the importance of pride, resilience, and unity,” LESC principal Craig Sutherland stated at the school assembly.
“It is a special time for all Australians to come together and honour the history, culture, and achievements of First Nations people. It’s a time to recognise the incredible contributions they have made, and continue to make, to our country.
“’Keep the Fire Burning’ is about sustaining the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous communities. Just like a fire that provides warmth and light, Indigenous cultures illuminate our society with their deep wisdom, traditions and stories. This week, we celebrate that unending flame that has been passed down through countless generations.
“Being ‘Blak, Loud and Proud’ means embracing and expressing Indigenous identity with confidence and joy. It’s about standing tall and celebrating who you are, where you come from, and the incredible history that you are part of. For all of us, it’s a reminder to support and uplift each other, to be proud of our diverse backgrounds, and to champion the voice of Indigenous people,” Mr Sutherland said.
The college held a variety of activities to engage this year’s theme, including art workshops, storytelling sessions, music performances and cultural displays.
IMAGE: Hugh Pepper and Rex Solomon with students who helped them during the NAIDOC ceremony Tyson Groth, Joel Twigg, Honang Luong and Arthur Liddle.
