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The Importance of Acknowledgement of Country in Educational Settings.

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An Acknowledgement of Country is a meaningful and respectful acknowledgement of the traditional stewards of the land on which we live, work, and learn. Including one in educational settings goes beyond simple formality. For people, educational institutions, and Indigenous communities alike, this practice is extremely important. Let’s examine the benefits of Acknowledgement of Country for reconciliation and cultural understanding in educational contexts.

Acknowledging Traditional Custodians

An Acknowledgement of Country is a way to pay respect to the traditional custodians of the land, acknowledging their ongoing connection to Country, culture, and heritage. By acknowledging Indigenous Peoples as the Traditional Owners of the land, educational institutions honour their sovereignty, resilience, and contributions to society.

Promoting Reconciliation

Acknowledging Country is an important step towards reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. It fosters mutual respect, understanding, and dialogue between different cultural groups and acknowledges the need for healing, justice, and equity for Indigenous peoples.

Fostering Cultural Awareness

Incorporating Acknowledgement of Country into educational settings helps foster cultural awareness, appreciation, and understanding among students, staff, and the broader community. It provides an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures, histories, and perspectives and promotes cross-cultural dialogue and respect.

Creating Inclusive Learning Environments

All students feel appreciated, respected, and represented in inclusive and culturally safe learning settings that are established through an Acknowledgement of Country. It acknowledges the variety of cultures and viewpoints present in the school community and helps Indigenous students and employees feel like they belong.

Connecting Learning to Place

Acknowledging Country helps connect learning to place by acknowledging the unique histories, cultures, and connections to land of Indigenous communities. It encourages students to develop a deeper appreciation for the land on which they live and learn and fosters environmental stewardship and respect for Country.

Acknowledgement of Country Aboriginal artwork

Collaborate with your students or colleagues to create a meaningful and connected Acknowledgement and have it placed on original Aboriginal art with our Customised Acknowledgement of Country posters.

Children Growing Strong Acknowledgement of Country

An Acknowledgement of Country is a powerful way to honour Traditional Custodians, promote reconciliation, foster cultural awareness, create inclusive learning environments, and connect learning to place. By incorporating this practice into educational settings, we can take meaningful steps towards building respectful and inclusive communities and promoting reconciliation and social justice.

We acknowledge and pay our respects to the people of the Bundjalung Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the beautiful land and waterways on which we live and work.

Always was. Always will be Aboriginal land.