REAIE acknowledges and celebrates National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day, held every year on August 4, since 1988. This year’s theme – Little Footsteps, Big Future – honours the journeys of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children as they grow, with every step guided by culture, community and connection to Country.
REAIE respects culture as one of the most sacred, strong and vital assets that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children possess. When culture and community shape and strengthen their identities, children thrive – now and in the future.
As a national day of celebration, Children’s Day gives Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children confidence. The majority of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children are thriving and growing up strong in their cultures, with support from family and community. However, a significant number of children continue to face ongoing challenges stemming from the effects of colonisation – including discrimination, poverty, systemic removal, inter-generational trauma, dislocation from land and culture and community disempowerment.
Children’s Day offers all Australians an opportunity to show their support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children by learning more about the impact that culture, family and community play in the life of every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander child.
This day represents an act of advocacy for systemic change for our younger citizens. To achieve equality, we can join in solidarity to approach these challenges through a holistic approach that considers the wellbeing, safety and development of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
At REAIE, we commit to walking alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children, families, and communities – guided by culture, community and connection to Country.
