Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations
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Today, February 13, marks the 15th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations.
On this day, we remember and recognise the many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who have been forcibly removed from their families throughout our history.
For more than 100 years, these children were forcibly placed in institutions or foster care with non-Indigenous families, disconnecting them from Country and culture.
The trauma and loss caused by the removal of children from their families has had an intergenerational impact that continues to affect many today.
In 2008, Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made a historic apology for the “laws and policies of successive Parliaments and governments that have inflicted profound grief, suffering and loss on these our fellow Australians.”
In 2023, the work to address these wrongs needs to continue.
The anniversary of the National Apology provides an opportunity for everyone to learn more about our problematic history and to reflect and acknowledge the pains of the past.
In October 2021 Merri-bek City Council, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elders, and local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents signed a Statement of Commitment to Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung People and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Communities of the City of Merri-bek.
This Statement of Commitment includes seven commitments that form the basis for ongoing working relationships between Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Elders and Council.