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Lesson ideas

Reconciliation Journey

Students discuss issues concerning Reconciliation and ways that individuals, groups and communities can get involved. Students recognise the powerful energies and leadership that all young Australians can bring to the Reconciliation process.

Reconciliation is about improving relations between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community. Its aim is a united Australia which respects this land of ours; values the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage; and provides justice and equity for all (NSW State Reconciliation Committee, 1999). Achieving Reconciliation requires all Australians to give the process 'a fair go', to take time to think about the issues for themselves and when ready, to give their support to make reconciliation happen in our local communities and in Australian Society. National Reconciliation Week 2009 is from May 27 to June 3.
These activities can be used independently but would be enhanced by the use of any of the resources listed below.

Awareness

• Ask students to list five words or phrases that come to mind when they think about Reconciliation among the people of Australia. Sensitivity is needed in managing this activity to ensure that negative stereotyped images are avoided.
• Divide class into small groups and ask each of them to select one of their five words or phrases and explain the significance they feel it has to the process of Reconciliation in Australia
• Invite a representative from each group to read out, (but not necessarily elaborate on), the words or phrases that were explained in their group
• Introduce any significant ideas that may have been omitted (see Teacher's notes 1)

• Brainstorm for some of the 'wounds' that require 'healing' for Reconciliation to be achieved. (see Teacher's notes 1)
• Brainstorm a list of strategies that individuals, groups and communities could use to promote Reconciliation (see Teacher's notes 2)

From the list of strategies suggested by the students identify those most relevant to your school. Discuss further and select students to approach the appropriate body (Principal, P & C, Student Council etc).

Identity, Culture and Conflict 2001 Kit, Multicultural Programs Unit, NSW Department of Education and Training
WALSH Anne, Sorry: A ritual of Remembering and of New Beginning. Kit, Fraynework Multimedia 1999
WALSH Anne, Desert Healing: A Journey Towards Reconciliation Kit, Fraynework Multimedia 1999
Koorie Studies in SOSE Years 7-10 Catholic Education Commission of Victoria 2001
HOWARD Adele (producer), Lore of the Land, CD-ROM, Fraynework Multimedia 1999
HEALEY Justin (ed) Issues in Society: Volume 156 The Stolen Generations The Spinney Press 2001
Racism. No way! Class activity Reconciliation
Racism. No way! Fact sheet Reconciliation
Reconciliation, A Streetwize Comic Production 1997
ABC Radio Programs-On Tape
1. Late Night Live RIP-Reconciliation in Paralysis? 16/7/01
2. AWAYE! 13 July 2001

NSW Reconciliation Council Inc
Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies
Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation
Corroboree 2000: Towards Reconciliation
HREOC
Yarra Healing