AASW HONOURS THE NATIONAL APOLOGY ANNIVERSARY

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) honours the 13th anniversary of the National Apology. This Day is one for reflection and a commitment to action, when the social work profession can reflect on the harm it has caused Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people but also look to the future and renew its commitment to Reconciliation, to ensure that the wrongs committed are never repeated.

AASW National Vice President, Linda Ford said the National Apology acknowledged the hurts and injustices of the past, now we need to continue moving forward and embrace the opportunities that have arisen since the National Apology, that can bring us together as a country.

“The anniversary of the National Apology provides the social work profession with a powerful reminder of the continuing impact of history on our profession and the communities our profession serves. We take this opportunity to acknowledge the strength and resilience of our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander colleagues, community members and clients. May we move forward together in a spirit of solidarity for a more united Australia.”

“The AASW in its commitment to Reconciliation, has continued to take meaningful action by launching its 2020-2022 Reconciliation Action Plan in mid-2020.  This is the Association’s third RAP ensuring that the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander members are represented in our decision making, our activities and our future directions.”

“With this plan and alongside our Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander colleagues, we will strive to be the best possible allies, by actively listening, by decolonising the way we work, by working in partnership and by making sure Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander colleagues and members of our communities shape our work.”

“We also know that to look forward and build authentic partnerships requires truth-telling and real understanding. Acknowledging the black history of our country, the historical role of Social Work and the current status of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples in our community is essential in building partnerships that are grounded in truth,” she said.