NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK 2023

We here at Acacia EAP acknowledge the Jagera people and the Turrbal people as the Traditional Custodians of Meanjin, the lands and waterways on which our head office is located. We pay our respects to Jagera and Turrbal Elders past, present, and emerging. Acacia also extends our respect to all Elders and First Nations Peoples across Australia.

The word reconciliation has many meanings; however, when spoken to in the context of reconciliation of our Nation, it is about forging, strengthening, and improving the relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures and non-Indigenous peoples to create a more united Australia that stands opposed to injustice, inequity, and racism.

With this in mind, it is evident that the reconciliation of our Nation is the personal responsibility of everyone. We all hold the capacity to ensure we experience not only a safe, inclusive, and supportive community but one that acknowledges and accepts our shared history

While every day is an opportunity to take steps closer to reconciliation, National Reconciliation Week – this year taking place from 27 May to 3 June – presents an opportunity for us to act with purpose and focus our attention and energy towards initiatives that increase our knowledge, enrich our understanding of the experiences of First Nations, and calls us to action.

This year’s theme “Be a Voice for Generations” acknowledges the journey of generations past, who fought for justice towards the unfinished business of reconciliation for future generations.

Yet, reconciliation is an ongoing journey, with many steps still needing our active involvement. “Be a Voice for Generations” encourages us to act with consciousness of what has been, what is now, as well as with the hope of what will be for future generations

Reconciliation Australia has a wealth of information and resources to support you in understanding how you can become involved and support reconciliation

In line with their recommendations, we encourage you to start today Increase your knowledge and understanding of your unconscious biases, abandon your preconceived notions, and educate yourself on the experiences of First Nations People. Seek the truth, not just what is comfortable

All too often we leap before thinking, filling in what we believe are the gaps, needs, and answers. “Be a Voice for Generations” acknowledges the experience of First Nations people having their voices silenced and excluded It encourages us all to create a space for First Nations people to be heard, and to raise and express their thoughts, feelings, and beliefs

Welcome, encourage, and listen to the stories and wisdoms of our First Nations people

Speak up and out against behaviours, beliefs, and attitudes of racism Racism is not the experience or concern of one individual or one group Its impact is widespread and can hurt or damage anyone. Next time you see someone denied their dignity, their human rights, or treated unfairly or unjustly, stand up and speak out

To be unified is to be joined as a whole; to acknowledge, accept, embrace, and celebrate each and every one First Nations people have shared and passed on their experiences for thousands of years, from generation to generation. The call here is not just to listen and receive, but to follow tradition in imagining a better future for all generations by using their words and actions to speak up and create a better country for everyone.

The strive towards a reconciled Australia is a continuous one, and one in which we all will have to self-reflect and address some uncomfortable truths. You are not alone in this journey and support is always available through Acacia EAP

Human beings are social creatures, hardwired for connection We need to feel understood and connected to others It gives a sense of belonging and purpose But you may be thinking: what does this have to do with gossiping?

I want you to think back to when you had an interaction with that colleague you might like a little less than others. Now think about how it felt to share your frustration, upset, and annoyance with another Did it leave you feeling a little better than before? Did you have a sense of trust and safety?

Gossiping can provide us with an experience of bonding, regardless of whether the conversation is positive or negative