Embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives is a core part of our ongoing practice at Nazareth. Earlier this month, students from ECC to Year 12 were deeply engaged in exploring the meaning of National Reconciliation Week (NRW). They have been learning about the significance of reconciliation, and understanding how each individual can contribute to the collective mission of building relationships and communities that respect and value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures.

As part of our commitment to these values, we recently commissioned Aboriginal contemporary artist Caitlyn Davies-Plummer to create a unique artwork that tells the story of our Nazareth community. This artwork has inspired the introduction of Reconciliation socks and new polo shirts for children in our Early Childhood Centre (ECC).

The Reconciliation socks, worn by students and staff across our community during Reconciliation Week and for co-curricular sports, have also been sold as a fundraiser to support Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Adelaide. We are proud that nearly $300 has been raised so far through the sale of these socks. This initiative not only highlights our commitment to reconciliation but also provides tangible support to Aboriginal communities.

In addition, the new ECC Kindy polo shirts, which arrived earlier this month, serve as another timely visual representation of our allyship and advocacy for respectful relationships during NRW and beyond. These shirts, along with the socks, symbolise our ongoing dedication to fostering environments that celebrate and respect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

We invite you to check out the video put together by our Early Childhood staff and children. It beautifully shares the story of how this project and collaboration came to life, and reflects the spirit of unity and respect that we strive to embody at Nazareth.