Where to celebrate Reconciliation Day in Canberra

Posted on 28 May, 2018

This year, the ACT is the first state or territory to recognise Reconciliation Day with a public holiday.

Here’s where to take part in commemorative celebrations across the capital today.

RECONCILIATION DAY IN THE PARK

Image via Facebook

Be part of history at our first Reconciliation Day. Join the celebrations to mark the ACT’s historic first Reconciliation Day public holiday at the Reconciliation in the Park event in Glebe Park on Monday 28 May.

Acknowledging the Indigenous custodians of the Canberra region and their contribution to the capital, it’s an opportunity to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements and explore how we can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.

A great day out for the family, enjoy live music from Busby Marou and Lucy Sugarman along with an array of local Indigenous performers and cultural activities including bush tucker talks, storytelling, art workshops as well as kids amusements, petting zoo and community BBQ. 

Happening Monday 28 May from 10 am – 2 pm at Glebe Park, Civic.

See the website for more information. 

RECONCILIATION DAY CELEBRATIONS AT THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA

Image via Facebook

Join the National Museum of Australia for Reconciliation Day – Canberra’s newest public holiday! The ACT Torres Strait Islander Corporation and Kara Buai Torres Strait Islander Corporation are celebrating Reconciliation Day with a public event featuring traditional dance, talks and hands-on activities representing the vibrant: artistic, spiritual and cultural traditions of the Torres Strait.

The National Museum is delighted to partner with the ACT Torres Strait Islander Corporation and Kara Buai Torres Strait Islander Corporation to present this event.

Happening Monday 28 May from 10 am – 12 pm at the National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent, Acton.

See the website for more information.

RECONCILIATION WEEK – SELFHOOD

Join Wiradjuri-Scottish Artist April Phillips for a creative workshop. Explore ideas around identity and version of self through experimentation with materials and art processes, including drawing, stamping and collage. Suitable for children aged 6 – 12 years.

Happening Saturday 26–Monday 28 May from 11 am at National Portrait Gallery, King Edward Terrace, Parkes. Tickets between $10–$12pp.

See the website for more information.

NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK AT THE NFSA 

Image via nfsa.gov.au/events/national-reconciliation-week

This week of screenings celebrates our nation’s reconciliation journey. The program includes the feel-good hit Bran Nue Dae, the NFSA’s restoration of My Survival as an Aboriginal and the short film One Night the Moon.

Happening Tuesday 29 May–Friday 1 June at National Film and Sound Archive, McCoy Circuit, Acton. Tickets from $5pp.

See the website for further details.

RECONCILIATION DAY CELEBRATION AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA

Rover Thomas [Joolama], Roads meeting 1987, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra. Purchased 1988. Reproduced courtesy of Warmun Art Centre. Image via facebook.com/NationalGalleryofAustralia/photos.

The program includes a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony and performances by the Reconciliation Choir and Ngambri Dancers. There will also be a range of free Indigenous Cultural Experiences including Sit down ‘Yarn Up’ with Elders, Local Bush food and medicine, Local History Workshop, History, Language and Culture Workshop, Drop in Adornment Jewellery or Art classes.

There will also be tours of The National Picture: The Art of Tasmania’s Black War and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Galleries throughout the day. A special Create Space: Land and sky program for kids and families will be presented in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Galleries. The NGA will also present Conciliation: The National and Local Picture, an in-conversation event based on the 2018 theme ‘Don’t keep History a Mystery’.

Happening Monday 28 May from 9.30 am – 5 pm at the National Gallery of Australia, Parkes Place East, Parkes.

See the website for more information.