Each year National Reconciliation Week celebrates the rich culture and history of the first Australians. It’s the ideal time for all of us to join the reconciliation conversation and to think about how we can help turn around the disadvantage experienced by many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Reconciliation Week is held every year between 27 May and 3 June. These two dates are significant to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples particularly.

On 27 May 1967 the Federal Government held a referendum to change the Australian Constitution. For the first time Indigenous Australians were to be counted as citizens in the census and the Commonwealth would be able to make laws on their behalf. Ove 90% of Australia voters said 'Yes' to the referendum.

On 3 June 1992 the High Court of Australia passed judgement in the Mabo case. The High Court found the Merriam people of Torres Strait were 'entitled as against the whole world to possession, occupation, use and enjoyment of the lands in the Murray Islands'. The historic judgement overturned the legal basis of Australia as 'terra nullius' (a land belonging to no one) at the time of collonisation. These were two important steps towards reconciliation and there have been many others but reconciliation is still mainly unfinished business.

As Tandanya is a main activity hub for Come Out 09 (18 - 30 May), our Reconciliation Week activities will occur only from 30 May to 3 June 09. All activities listed below are FREE of charge, as space is limited please book directly with Kate Greenshields on 08 8224 3202 or venue@tandanya.com.au.

 

Torres Strait Islander Dance

30th - 31st May @ 12noon
Experience and learn traditional stories, songs and dances from the Torres Strait Islands.

Kanyini

1st - 3rd June @ 10.30am

Kanyini is a Pitjantjatjara world meaning interconnectedness; to care for, to support, to nurture and protect. Kanyini, the film, contains great beauty and wisdom, and offers an accessible account of what has happened to Australia’s First People since the arrival of the white man. Based on his own personal journey, Bob Randall, who lives beside Uluru in Central Australia, tells a story that is not only of one man and his people, but the story of the human race. Told without bitterness, Bob Randall weaves his story with depth, understanding and precision. Itis a tale of Indigenous wisdom clashing against materialist notions of progress – inviting all Australians to work together to understand, acknowledge and redress the wrongs of the past. It is a film for every Australian.

Cultural Presentation & Performance (Yidaki - didgeridoo)

1st - 3rd June @ 12noon
Explores the historical, cultural, geographical and social aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and includes a presentation and performance of the yidaki (didgeridoo).

Liyarn Ngarn

1st - 3rd June @ 1pm

Liyarn Ngarn, in the Yawuru language of the West Kimberly region, means‘coming together of the spirit’. It is a compelling documentary, aiming to assist with the process of true and lasting reconciliation. An often painful, yet inspiring journey of strength, Liyarn Ngarn is unique, powerful, and completely absorbing. 

“Liyarn Ngarn had me riveted and moved me to tears, anger and shame. It’s the most culturally significant film I’ve seen in years…Pete Postlethwaite, Archie Roach and Patrick Dodson are superb…it’s an absolute ‘must see’ for ALL Australians.” David Lightfoot, film producer.

To find out what else is happening around South Australia during Reconciliation Week, please visit Reconciliation SA website.

Sacred Ground Screening

ANTaR SA presents the second screening of Sacred Ground on Mabo Day, 3rd June 2009 from 6.30pm at the Tandanya Theatre. Following from the screening will be a forum discussing the Review of the Aboriginal Heritage Act. Speakers will include Quentin Agius, Tom Trevorrow, Lynette Crocker, Syd Sparrow, Dr Dave Baker and Shaun Berg.

All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples receive free entry and for all others tickets are $7 and proceeds will go to Kaurna, Adjahdura/Narungga and Ngarrindjeri Heritage Groups. Tickets must be reserved or purchased as seats are limited. contact Tandanya Retail in person or via phone on 08 8224 3222. There is 2 ticket minimum when purchasing via credit card.