A new pathway to reconciliation with First Nations people
We all need to be part of the solution, and commit to all Australians, including our First Nations people, that we are focused on finding the solutions so that we all have the same life-chances, opportunities and choices.
The Australian National University (ANU) is today launching its new Reconciliation Action Plan, to embed First Nations people, culture and history into everything the University does, as part of National Reconciliation Week.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said 2021 is a year of action and reflection.
"I am delighted to be launching our new Reconciliation Action Plan, better known as the RAP, on behalf of our community," Professor Schmidt said.
"We all need to be part of the solution, and commit to all Australians, including our First Nation people, that we are focused on finding the solutions so that we all have the same life-chances, opportunities and choices. This plan helps chart that pathway."
Professor Peter Yu, ANU Vice-President (First Nations) and a Yawuru man from Broome, said ANU can promote "a meaningful and lasting change".
"We have a responsibility to use that power to provide opportunities for First Nations communities across the country," Professor Yu said.
"Our work is integral to the reconciliation process - a process that aims to remove the barriers that have divided Australians since colonisation. Removing those barriers is everyone's responsibility. We all have a part to play in building a better future for all Australians."
ANU Chancellor, the Hon Julie Bishop, said National Reconciliation Week is an opportunity to reflect on the issues and experiences of First Nations people.
"It is about learning, listening and evaluating past actions in closing the gap, and how those efforts can be more effective," Ms Bishop said.
"Reconciliation is a journey - it's about a new way of working together and making it part of our daily lives. As the national university, it's our responsibility to demonstrate leadership in driving change.
"We each need to understand and be accountable for reconciliation. We need to feel empowered to achieve our goals as a community, and empower each other to make a positive difference.
"Your commitment starts with engaging with our new Reconciliation Action Plan. We can make a bigger difference if we work together, and this is our time for action."
The Vice-Chancellor, Chancellor and Professor Yu will launch the ANU 2021-22 Reconciliation Action Plan on Thursday 27 May in Kambri.
ANU Pro-Chancellor Naomi Flutter will deliver the University's 2021 flagship event to honour National Reconciliation Week on Friday 28 May.
On Tuesday 1 June, the University will host a panel discussion on the question, what could we change if First Nations people and non-Indigenous Australians came together? The panel members are The Hon Linda Burney MP, Professor Rae Frances and Geraldine Chin Moody, and ABC Radio National Breakfast host Fran Kelly will chair the discussion.
Be part of the conversation: https://www.anu.edu.au/nrw2021
