When Bellambi Public School first held a 50-man walk for reconciliation in 2013, they had no idea how their numbers would grow.
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Three years later, the walk on Friday, May 27 had 13 local schools and over 600 individuals participating.
The walk marks the beginning of Reconciliation Week, which runs from May 27 May to June 3.
Bellambi Public School principal Jacqueline Catford was thrilled that the community was able to come together and participate in the walk for such an important occasion.
“This walk is the catalyst for thinking and feeling, to really consider our role in reconciliation,’’ Ms Catford said.
“As educators we are very mindful that reconciliation needs to be embedded across the curriculum. This is where our community can come together to open up hearts and minds.”
Reconciliation Week aims to build better relationships between the wider Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for the benefit of all Australians.
This year’s theme for Reconciliation Week is “Our History, Our Story, Our Future”, looking at the road traveled to arrive at reconciliation and the impact that it has had on the Australian community.
The walk offers the opportunity for individuals to recognise issues within society and to come up with innovative ideas to make a positive impact and change.
“Reconciliation is all about recognising past mistakes and making sure that those mistakes are not repeated,’’ explained Ms Catford.
Youth of all ages marched in a sea of colour from Holy Spirit College, down Cawley Street to Bellambi Public School, waving hands of support and unifying in the name of reconciliation.
“The young people are where you truly start,’’ Ms Catford said believing the walk to have a profound impact on the young minds.
“These kids don’t know of the prejudices and the stereotypes that are placed on individuals.”
Student leader at Bellambi Public School, Kiana Ucles, 11, was proud to be leading the walk, holding up a banner for reconciliation.
“It’s very important for all Australians and Aboriginal peoples to come together and learn things about each other and their different cultures,’’ Miss Ucles said.
The event brought together an eclectic array of individuals, showcasing the passion and acceptance of the local community.
“The diversity of our community is just phenomenal. Getting them into the regular practice of being together, simply sharing and celebrating Australia’s diversity and culture is so important.”
Students look forward to next year’s walk.
