NAIDOC Week is a week of celebrations held across Australia to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC stands for ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee’. It is usually held from the first Sunday in July to the following Sunday. Due to COVID-19, NAIDOC Week is taking place from 8 November to 15 November 2020.
The official theme for 2020 - Always Was, Always Will Be – recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years. https://www.naidoc.org.au/get-involved/2020-theme
The CCC has participated in NAIDOC Week activities since 2001. During NAIDOC Week the CCC acknowledges the contributions of our First Nations people, celebrates Indigenous culture, reflects on the relationship between the broader Australian community and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and considers the role that we can each play to foster greater unity within our society.
Our agency has a long and ongoing connection with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities. We serve an important function in responding to the needs and concerns of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in relation to criminal justice and good governance of public sector agencies. Therefore, safe, culturally appropriate engagement as a basis for lasting relationships remains a priority for the CCC.
This year, the CCC recognises the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic and associated social distancing measures present in fostering the unity that underpins activities that traditionally mark NAIDOC Week. The CCC has responded to these circumstances by creating a program of internal events so that all our staff can continue to participate in NAIDOC Week.
An exciting addition to our NAIDOC Week celebrations this year is a staff cultural tour to the Nudgee Waterholes, Bora Ring and Bush Food Gardens site. Facilitated by Nyanda Aboriginal Cultural Tours & bush food experience, the tour provides insight into Aboriginal cultural stories, Aboriginal history, and Aboriginal cultural performance elements, and staff will have the opportunity to taste seasonal bush foods.
These activities increase the cultural awareness of our staff and celebrate and promote the vibrant and unique cultures of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
This NAIDOC Week we are proud to feature the artwork specially created for us by designer Leigh Harris to represent our reconciliation journey. Please read more about how Leigh’s designs are an integral part of our Reconciliation Action Plan.
