City of Whittlesea today commemorated National Sorry Day and reflected on the forced removal of Aboriginal children from their families, communities and country, as well as the ongoing suffering experienced by descendants of the stolen generation.
Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson highlighted the importance of the day for Council's leadership, staff and community members.
"Acknowledgement is so important, but today is really about apologising," Ms Wilson said.
"We are apologising for the policies of past parliaments and governments that have brought immense suffering and loss to Aboriginal communities here, in what we now call the City of Whittlesea, and around the country.
"Sorry Day is also an opportunity for communities to honour the strength of survivors.
"Together we reflect on the historical steps taken towards healing, such as the national apology delivered in Parliament in 2013, and look to future reconciliation milestones, including joining the National Redress Scheme."
Ms Wilson also thanked Aboriginal staff working at the City of Whittlesea and the members of the Whittlesea Reconciliation Group, which is a key reference group for Council.
"This group plays a key role in fostering reconciliation through greater understanding of historical and contemporary issues affecting our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities," she said.
"The City of Whittlesea will continue to work closely with the WRG in the important work of reconciliation."
Due to the evolving Covid situation, which has affected the City of Whittlesea, Council did not go ahead with a community event planned for Sorry Day.
