Concordia Lutheran College Embraces Indigenous Culture
To honour and celebrate the rich traditions and culture of Australia's Indigenous peoples, Concordia Lutheran College recently observed NAIDOC Week with a series of engaging and educational events. One of the highlights was a captivating traditional dance performance accompanied by a showcase of ancient Indigenous weapons, tools, and dance materials. Students and staff gathered in the college gym to witness the impressive display.
Wally McIntosh, the First Nations Support Coordinator at Concordia Lutheran College, played a pivotal role in organizing the NAIDOC Week activities.
"It's wonderful to see our college community coming together to acknowledge and celebrate the Indigenous culture that is an integral part of Australia's identity. NAIDOC Week allows us to learn and appreciate the history, traditions, and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples," he said.
Head of College Anton Prinsloo expressed his gratitude for the NAIDOC Week celebrations at Concordia Lutheran College.
"Promoting cultural awareness is an essential part of our educational philosophy,” Mr. Prinsloo said. “NAIDOC Week provides a platform for our students to engage with the rich tapestry of Australia's Indigenous heritage, fostering respect, empathy, and a greater appreciation for diversity.”
As Wally McIntosh eloquently summed up the significance of the event saying “NAIDOC Week is a time for us to come together, celebrate, and acknowledge the rich cultural heritage of our First Nation people. It is through events like these that we can build bridges of understanding and respect.”
Concordia Lutheran College is taking significant strides towards fostering understanding, respect, and reconciliation within the college community through the Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) Working Group.
Committed to creating a meaningful and impactful RAP, the group has been actively engaged in reviewing current practices and seeking feedback from various stakeholders, including staff, students, and families.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity and collaboration, the college believes that involving the entire community in shaping the RAP is paramount to its success. The collective wisdom of the community will ensure the RAP's effectiveness in promoting reconciliation.
To support and guide this process, Concordia Lutheran College has turned to Narragunnawali, an initiative of Reconciliation Australia. Narragunnawali offers practical resources, information, and advice to educational institutions, assisting them in embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures, and perspectives into their curriculum and practices. By utilizing Narragunnawali, the college aims to incorporate authentic and respectful approaches to reconciliation within its educational framework.
"The development of our Reconciliation Action Plan is a significant step in the right direction. By actively involving our community and utilizing resources such as Narragunnawali, we are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive college environment," said Wally McIntosh, who is also a member of the Concordia RAP Working group.
