Makarrata

Last week was National Reconciliation Week.

We asked our students why should we care? What does reconciliation mean to you? They were able to articulate a number of reasons in response to this question. Above all, as Christian people, it came back to healing.

The works from the Makarrata Commission encapsulate the sentiment of healing:

‘ ….it means two parties coming together after a struggle, to heal the wounds of the past, and live in peace. The word’s core message is to acknowledge that something wrong has been done and seek to make tings right. The word captures the aspirations for a fair, truthful and reconciled relationship between First Nations and the people of Australia, and for a better future for First Nations’ children based on justice and self-determination.’

Makarrata is a word from the language of the Yolngu people in Arnhem Land

Guest Speakers

The College was joined by two guest speakers during Reconciliation Week. Through their lived experience, they were able to share insights and learnings to help us all on the journey to reconciliation.

Emma Leehane is proud Yorta Yorta woman and Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer for Grampians Health.  She provided insights to students about the impacts of colonialism and unjust government policies on her family and people.

Chris Saunders is a proud Gunditjmara man. He has been studying at Deakin and working as a leader in his community to advocate for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices. He has recently taken on a role at St Pat’s new ‘Clontarf Academy’, a space and program designed to improve outcomes for indigenous students.