August 4 2023 is National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day. It is a day to come together and celebrate Indigenous children and advocate for a more equitable and inclusive society. National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day is an important occasion to reflect on the challenges faced by Indigenous children and the essential work needed to create a brighter future for them - This year’s theme is 'Little Voices, Loud Futures'.
“Each year, hundreds of early years and childhood education centres host events to celebrate Children's Day. Your event can take place at your workplace, school or kindergarten, or in partnership with a local Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander organisation or community.
Ideas include hosting a morning tea or a barbecue, cultural dancing, arts and craft sessions, cultural exchanges, concerts and performances, storytelling, competitions, sporting days, games and activities. Each year, hundreds of early years and childhood education centres host events to celebrate Children's Day.”
-SNAICC (National Voice for our Children)
Image: aboriginalchildrensday.com.au
By raising awareness and supporting initiatives like National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. Together, we can build a brighter future where every child can achieve their own destiny.
While many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are thriving in their secure cultural environments, a significant number continue to confront the enduring effects of colonisation. These challenges include discrimination, poverty, systemic racism, intergenerational trauma, and disconnection from land and culture.
Addressing these issues requires a holistic approach that prioritises the well-being, safety, and development of Indigenous children. According to The Family Matters Report 2019, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are 2.5 times more likely to face developmental vulnerabilities early in life compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts. Additionally, access to early child care services is only half as likely for them.
BW Tribal is deeply committed to supporting Indigenous communities and promoting positive change. National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day serves as a poignant reminder of the work that still needs to be done to ensure every child has the opportunity to flourish and succeed. By acknowledging and addressing the historical and contemporary challenges faced by our children, we can pave the way for a future where they can thrive, grow strong in their cultures, and realise their full potential.To find out more about how to get involved in National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, head over to the official website. You can register to host a Children's Day event, access the full list of events happening near you, download resources like children's activity books, purchase Children's Day 2023 resource bags, and make direct donations:
www.aboriginalchildrensday.com.au
Be sure to follow along on our blog - we'll keep you up to date with initiatives and events that focus on uplifting and supporting Indigenous children.
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