‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ is the theme of the 50th Anniversary of NAIDOC Week. This theme was chosen to celebrate past achievements, and the future ahead. Information in this blog has been sourced from www.naidoc.org.au/

Prior to the 1920s, several Aboriginal rights groups took action to boycott Australia Day against the treatment of our First Nations people. In 1938, there was a protest of over 1000 people held on Australia Day through the streets of Sydney. This was known as the Day of Mourning and was then annually held from 1940-1955 on the Sunday before Australia Day. In 1955, it was decided that this day should not just be a protest of Australia Day, but a celebration of the Aboriginal culture, so was moved to the first Sunday in July, to allow it to sufficiently get the attention and awareness it needed.

In 1972, because of the 1967 referendum, the Department of Aboriginal Culture was formed and has had significant impacts ever since. Over time, it has become a national celebration which reinforces our vision for an Australia where Indigenous voices are not only heard but lead the way. So not only does this year celebrate a milestone, but also the strength, unity, perseverance and determination of our First Nations People.

Each year, there are hundreds of NAIDOC events held across Australia. To find one near you, simply search your postcode on the local events page. Other ways you can be involved in NAIDOC week include displaying posters in your school, discussing Aboriginal culture and First Nations role models, visiting local sacred sites and attending a flag raising ceremony.