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July 7, 2021 - More than half of Australians (57 per cent) agree learning more about First Nations history, peoples and culture will help heal Country- the theme for NAIDOC week 2021, new research released today has shown.
The research, commissioned by the Know Your Country campaign, confirms many Australians would like to know more about First Nations peoples and culture and understand that knowledge is part of healing, World Vision First Nations Policy Advisor and Wiradjuri man Dr Scott Winch said.
"The 2021 NAIDOC theme Heal Country, Heal Our Nations calls for stronger measures to recognise, protect, and maintain all aspects of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and heritage," Dr Winch said.
"Country is all-encompassing and includes land, waters and sky and all that exists within these spaces –including us humans. Country has been in pain for years from pollution, resource extraction, drying waterways, damage to oceans and the air which we breath, and the desecration of the traditional sites which are a vital part of Country. The Country must be healed, and this will heal First Nations people and Australia as a nation.
"The Know Your Country campaign calls for learning more about First Nations through the education system where a First Nations Cultural Educator in every primary school can assist teachers to protect, maintain and share our culture, history and perspectives. This will provide all Australian children a great understanding of Country and their role as custodians."
