Brigidines in all corners of our Congregation recognise and value the knowledge, insight and wisdom within the cultures and lives of Indigenous peoples.
We recall also Fatima Measham’s challenge:
“… Love of nature can only be authentic in solidarity with indigenous peoples who do not distinguish themselves from the plants, animals, rivers and mountains which inspire their languages practices, and spirit. So loving one must include the other.
(Fatima Measham, Invitation & Call 2022)
The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples promotes:
“the full and effective participation of First Nation Peoples in all matters that concern them.” (Article 18)
Meanwhile, in Australia…
National Reconciliation Week is celebrated across Australia each year between 27 May and 3 June. Reconciliation Week in Australia. Why these dates?
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about shared histories, cultures and achievements and to explore how each of us can join the national reconciliation effort.
The NRW theme for 2023 is, significantly, Be a Voice for Generations. View short video:
The theme encourages all Australians to be a voice for reconciliation in 
tangible ways in our everyday lives – to speak up where we live, work and socialise.
For the work of generations past, and the benefit of generation’s future, we are encouraged to act today for a more just, equitable and reconciled country for all. (Source: Reconciliation Australia)
The 2023 theme echoes the plea of First Nations peoples to be heard in the Australian Parliament – the plea to which all Australians will be invited to respond in the 2023 referendum.
During Reconciliation Week, perhaps we could take the time to read and reflect some more with the Uluru Statement from the Heart:
Uluru Statement from the Heart
“…we are challenged to listen and respond to the cry of all life pleading, ‘Am I not your neighbour?’
Invitation and Call, Congregational Forum 2022